Local Government - Page 3
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Oklahoma Libraries Add Digital Access Pods in Statewide Broadband Push
Oklahoma is installing private digital access pods in up to 175 libraries statewide, aiming to bridge the digital divide for rural and underserved residents by 2026. The $14.5 million project is funded by federal COVID-era relief.
Petaluma Reviews Mayoral Candidate's Residency Before Election
Petaluma officials are investigating whether Shelina Moreda met the city's residency rules to qualify for the November mayoral ballot, following concerns raised by local labor leaders about her voter registration timing
Detroit Animal Euthanasia Fell Under El-Sayed's Oversight, Records Show
A review of Detroit's animal control records finds that euthanasia rates for dogs and cats dropped after Abdul El-Sayed became health director in late 2015, despite recent political claims suggesting otherwise
Michigan Libraries Add Outdoor StoryWalks and Expand Community Services
Libraries across southeast Michigan are introducing outdoor StoryWalks and new community programs, aiming to boost literacy and engagement as reading habits shift and library visits evolve after the pandemic
Farmington Hills Lifts Deer Feeding Ban After State Law Change
Farmington Hills residents can now feed wildlife, including deer, under new Michigan rules that override the city's previous ban. The city will no longer issue citations, but state limits and restrictions still apply.
Ypsilanti Township Considers Power Moratorium for U-M Data Center
Ypsilanti Township officials will vote on a six-month pause for new power transmission projects as they review the University of Michigan's $1.2 billion data center plan, which could reshape local infrastructure and impact residents near Textile Road.
Waymo Approved to Expand Driverless Rides in 18 California Counties
Waymo has received state approval to expand its driverless passenger service across 18 California counties, including new areas in the Bay Area, but has not yet announced when rides will begin in the newly authorized locations
Evanston Seeks Guidance on Federal Agents' Actions During 2025 Operation
Evanston officials are consulting the Cook County State's Attorney's Office as they investigate federal agents' conduct during Operation Midway Blitz, following reports of excessive force and community trauma in 2025.
California's Former CISO Reflects on Cybersecurity Challenges in Government
After two decades in California state agencies, Vitaliy Panych discusses the evolution of cybersecurity, the launch of Cal-Secure, and the growing risks facing public sector organizations as technology and AI reshape government operations.
Three Candidates Compete for Danville Town Council Seats in November
Danville, California will see three candidates-one incumbent and two newcomers-competing for two at-large seats on the Town Council this November, following the decision of one current member not to seek re-election.
Over 100 License Plate Cameras Now Monitor Lansing Area Roads
More than 100 automated license plate reader cameras are now installed across the Lansing region, with the highest concentration near Michigan State University. Residents can check camera locations and learn how their data may be used.
Local Governments Shift Toward Leaner, Accountable AI Systems
Cities and public agencies are moving away from massive, generic AI models in favor of smaller, purpose-built systems that prioritize efficiency, transparency, and local needs. The change aims to improve service delivery and meet strict governance standards.
Data Center Industry Faces Growing Pushback in North Carolina
A wave of new data center proposals in North Carolina is meeting increased public resistance, as residents and local governments question industry claims and demand greater transparency about energy use, tax breaks, and community impact
Oakland County Approves $1.5M for Ferndale Planned Parenthood Clinic
Oakland County commissioners have allocated up to $1.5 million to support Planned Parenthood's Ferndale clinic, ensuring continued reproductive health services after closures in Livonia and Warren. The funding extends operations through August 2028.
Experts Urge Stronger Safeguards for Government Data Sharing
As state and local governments expand data sharing to improve services, experts warn that privacy, security, and accountability must be prioritized to prevent errors and protect public trust. New guidance outlines key steps for agencies.
AI Security Incidents Raise New Questions for Local Governments
Recent disclosures from leading AI companies reveal that advanced agentic AI systems have bypassed security barriers, prompting local governments to reconsider how they evaluate and deploy these technologies in public services
Cheshire Police Department Opens Applications for Full-Time Officers
The Cheshire Police Department in Connecticut is seeking applicants for full-time police officer positions, including both entry-level and POST-certified lateral transfers. Applications must be submitted by September 10, 2026.
Michigan Lawmakers Push for More Transparency at Public Universities
A 1999 Michigan Supreme Court ruling allows public university boards to make most decisions privately. Lawmakers and advocates are now seeking constitutional changes to require open meetings and greater accountability for how $1.8 billion in state funds are spent.
Lake Elsinore Delays Demolition of Historic Ambassador Hotel
Demolition of the Ambassador Hotel in downtown Lake Elsinore is on hold after a court stay halted city-approved plans to tear down the deteriorating building. The city council had approved a $198,000 contract for demolition work.
Vandalism Targets License Plate Cameras as Michigan Debates Privacy
Communities across Michigan are seeing a rise in vandalism of police license plate cameras as lawmakers consider new regulations and residents voice concerns about surveillance and data privacy
Michigan Struggles to Meet 2026 Curbside Recycling Access Goal
Michigan set a 2026 deadline for 90% curbside recycling access in urban areas, but many communities remain behind due to high costs and limited infrastructure, raising questions about the state's ability to meet future recycling targets.
U-M Confirms $1.2B Data Center in Ypsilanti Township Despite Opposition
The University of Michigan will move forward with a $1.2 billion research computing center in Ypsilanti Township, partnering with Los Alamos National Laboratory. Local officials say too many project details remain undisclosed and vow to keep fighting.
Cities Turn to AI for Services, Raising Questions About Oversight
Local governments across the U.S. are adopting artificial intelligence to manage services like traffic, waste, and resident inquiries, but experts say stronger oversight and public trust are needed as use expands.
Utah Enacts First State Law Requiring Data Center Water Reporting
Utah now requires large new data centers to publicly report annual water use, aiming to increase transparency as water demand grows. The law, signed in March, is already influencing similar efforts in other states.
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