Podcasts about councilors

The rightwing media, both mainstream and alternative, along with top social media influencers, are sharing videos of the Japanese Speaker of the House, Fukushiro Nukaga, announcing the dissolving of the House of Representatives: “Following Article 7 of the Constitution of Japan, the House of Representatives is dissolved." These sources are saying the video is breaking news, though it was recorded in mid-January. They are repeating the talking point, however, that the video shows the Japanese government banning Islam and all its associated elements. The same media and influencers are repeating the line that the current Japanese Prime Minster, Sanae Takaichi, was just elected and her first order of business was to target Islam. But she was elected in October 2025, her first orders of business being temporary tax breaks, addressing the lowered value of Yen and the cost of living, and dealing with law-breakers of the foreign variety. The same media is likewise taking the illegal immigration issue and painting it was anti-Islam. Another video, this time of Mizuho Umemura, a member of the House of Councilors and part of the Sanseito Party, has been shared with captions that it shows the new Prime Minister banning Islam. The video is from 2024, is of Umemura, and the only connection to Islam is her stance on letting local officials handle burial issues which apply to everyone. What is happening here?The Muslim population in Japan is approximately 0.3%, about double what it was in 2020. The Christian population is approximately 1-1.5%. Attempts to paint any issue in Japan with the brush of western, conservative, Judaeo-Christianity is abhorrent and ignorant. While western culture has been embraced in Japan for over 100 years, conservative values in the country are not driven by the same fuel they are in the west. Japanese conservative is simply is not driven by Christianity, Jesus, and certainly not the Judeo element of new Christianity. Therefore, it is not driven by the spiteful loathing Western Christians have for Arabs and Muslims. Any shared sentiment in Japan is driven by interaction and experience (possibly exaggerated social media claims), not by theology, or Christian and Jewish cultural propaganda. The root source of animosity towards foreigners, where it does exist, is almost exclusively Chinese. It is also driven by the infamous Japanese cultural motif of order in society. Japan has certainly become more liberalized in the past 100+ years, meaning that strong conservative traditions at minimum stem from a time when Christianity was almost non-existent in the country. Going back to 1614 when the Japanese government banned Christianity, it was because the Tokugawa regime wanted strict social order and Christians were both foreigners and disruptive. This ban on the religion was extended to all religions not Buddhist or Shinto. What is happening here? Theory: social media has also provided a platform for a pattern to be exposed. Japanese issues with immigration and refugees, while ultimately little, have been shown to result from people like Rochelle Kopp, managing principal of Japan Intercultural Consulting; Amy Pope, head of the UN International Organization for Migration, who works with HIAS; Beate Sirota Gordon, translator for General Douglas MacArthur and author of key sections of Japan's current constitution. All of these people have one or more things in common. As did Rahm Emanuel when he was ambassador. What is happening now appears to be connected to the early 20th-century when Japanese immigrants to the US were targeted because of their innate ability to be successful but lower standard of living; and the mid-20th-century when Japan's economy was undermined by the US Federal Reserve, run then by the people implied mentioned above, including Arthur Burns and Paul Vocker. Japan is currently the number one holder of US Debt and is planning to dump a portion or all it at some point. That, and social media has been linking the Japanese demon Tengu to this story too.Interestingly, just before the above propaganda about Japan and Islam began, the Prime Minister noted after the landslide victory to give her a supermajority that the goal was to revise the Japanese constitution to strengthen Japan. This is a major plan on top of the current plan to have zero illegals in Japan. It appears that the people responsible for subjugating Japan and attempting to culturally obliterate it are terrified of its renewed strength. It appears that the conservative shift in Japan is what the MAGA cult in the United States wanted but did not get. Media is attempting to blend the two together when they are not one and the same. It appears the goal is to subvert the shift and make it about Islam when clearly the source of these problems, while not discussed in general Japanese policies, is not Muslim. The western media push to do this is driven secondarily by Christians attempting to project their beliefs on an atheistic country that maintains more order, cleanliness and respect than the nation that worship Jesus supposedly. *The is the FREE archive, which includes advertisements. If you want an ad-free experience, you can subscribe below underneath the show description.WEBSITEFREE ARCHIVE (w. ads)SUBSCRIPTION ARCHIVE-X / TWITTERFACEBOOKINSTAGRAMYOUTUBERUMBLE-BUY ME A COFFEECashApp: $rdgable PAYPAL: rdgable1991@gmail.comRyan's Books: https://thesecretteachings.info EMAIL: rdgable@yahoo.com / rdgable1991@gmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-secret-teachings--5328407/support.

Councilors are putting their stamp of approval on Toronto's 2026 budget; the Gordie Howe International bridge has now become the centre of the latest dispute in the on-going trade war between the U.S. and Canada; and, at Holland Bloorview kids Rehabilitation Hospital - the Toronto Scepters are visiting but according to the players, the heroes are the kids.

This Day in Maine for Tuesday, February 3, 2026.

This session shares part of the Franklin (MA) Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. The Council held this session as scheduled beginning at 6 PM. All 9 Councilors participated for this 4 hour plus session. 1647 - covers the opening, Citizen comments, and 2 appointments to the Zoning Board of Appeals (approx. 2 hour 16 mins) 1648 - segment from the meeting covering the full discussion on the DPW infrastructure update & discussion (approx. 1 hr 40 mins) 1649 - segment from the meeting covers remainder of the meeting (approx. 52 mins)--------------Additional notes on the meeting recap can be found (including link to Franklin TV video) ->https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/01/town-council-spends-almost-2-hours-to.html -------------We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial. This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.How can you help?If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighborsIf you don't like something here, please let me knowAnd if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We'll share and show you what and how we do what we doThrough this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot comThe music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.I hope you enjoy!------------------You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

This session shares part of the Franklin (MA) Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. The Council held this session as scheduled beginning at 6 PM. All 9 Councilors participated for this 4 hour plus session.1647 - covers the opening, Citizen comments, and 2 appointments to the Zoning Board of Appeals (approx. 2 hour 16 mins)1648 - segment from the meeting covering the full discussion on the DPW infrastructure update & discussion (approx. 1 hr 40 mins)1649 - segment from the meeting covers remainder of the meeting (approx. 52 mins)--------------Additional notes on the meeting recap can be found (including link to Franklin TV video) ->https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/01/town-council-spends-almost-2-hours-to.html-------------We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial.This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.How can you help?If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighborsIf you don't like something here, please let me knowAnd if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We'll share and show you what and how we do what we doThrough this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.newsIf you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot comThe music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.I hope you enjoy!------------------You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

This session shares part of the Franklin (MA) Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. The Council held this session as scheduled beginning at 6 PM. All 9 Councilors participated for this 4 hour plus session.1647 - covers the opening, Citizen comments, and 2 appointments to the Zoning Board of Appeals (approx. 2 hour 16 mins)1648 - segment from the meeting covering the full discussion on the DPW infrastructure update & discussion (approx. 1 hr 40 mins)1649 - segment from the meeting covers remainder of the meeting (approx. 52 mins)--------------Additional notes on the meeting recap can be found (including link to Franklin TV video) ->https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/01/town-council-spends-almost-2-hours-to.html-------------We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial.This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.How can you help?If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighborsIf you don't like something here, please let me knowAnd if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We'll share and show you what and how we do what we doThrough this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.newsIf you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot comThe music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.I hope you enjoy!------------------You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

A Clark County Today poll examines whether councilors serving on boards and commissions should be required to vote according to the full council's position, following debate over proposed Rules of Procedure changes tied to board authority and representation. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/poll-should-councilors-serving-on-boards-be-required-to-vote-the-way-the-full-council-decides/ #Opinion #ClarkCounty #LocalGovernment #CTRAN #PublicPolicy

Clark County Today Editor Ken Vance responds forcefully to a Vancouver City Council declaration criticizing federal immigration enforcement, arguing the statement fuels fear, undercuts local police, and advances a politically motivated narrative without evidence. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-vancouver-councilors-responsible-for-stoking-irrational-fears-in-the-community/ #Opinion #VancouverCityCouncil #ImmigrationPolicy #LawEnforcement #ClarkCounty #VancouverWA

This session shares part of the Franklin (MA) Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. The Council held this session as scheduled beginning at 6 PM. All 9 Councilors participated for this 4 hour plus session.1632 - covers the opening, Citizen comments, and everything else except (approx. 1 hour 36 mins)the Facilities presentation & discussion (see 1633)and the friendly 40b policy discussion (see 1634)1633 - segment from the meeting covering the full discussion on the Facilities update from Kevin Harn (approx. 1 hr 27 mins)1634 - segment from the meeting covering the full discussion on the charter change process (approx. 1 hr 5 mins)--------------Additional notes on the meeting recap can be found ->https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/01/town-council-approves-amended-friendly.html-------------We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial.This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.How can you help?If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighborsIf you don't like something here, please let me knowAnd if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We'll share and show you what and how we do what we doThrough this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.newsIf you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot comThe music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.I hope you enjoy!------------------You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

This session shares part of the Franklin (MA) Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. The Council held this session as scheduled beginning at 6 PM. All 9 Councilors participated for this 4 hour plus session. 1632 - covers the opening, Citizen comments, and everything else except (approx. 1 hour 36 mins)the Facilities presentation & discussion (see 1633) and the friendly 40b policy discussion (see 1634) 1633 - segment from the meeting covering the full discussion on the Facilities update from Kevin Harn (approx. 1 hr 27 mins) 1634 - segment from the meeting covering the full discussion on the charter change process (approx. 1 hr 5 mins)--------------Additional notes on the meeting recap can be found ->https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/01/town-council-approves-amended-friendly.html -------------We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial. This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.How can you help?If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighborsIf you don't like something here, please let me knowAnd if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We'll share and show you what and how we do what we doThrough this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot comThe music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.I hope you enjoy!------------------You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

This session shares part of the Franklin (MA) Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. The Council held this session as scheduled beginning at 6 PM. All 9 Councilors participated for this 4 hour plus session. 1632 - covers the opening, Citizen comments, and everything else except (approx. 1 hour 36 mins)the Facilities presentation & discussion (see 1633) and the friendly 40b policy discussion (see 1634) 1633 - segment from the meeting covering the full discussion on the Facilities update from Kevin Harn (approx. 1 hr 27 mins) 1634 - segment from the meeting covering the full discussion on the charter change process (approx. 1 hr 5 mins)--------------Additional notes on the meeting recap can be found ->https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/01/town-council-approves-amended-friendly.html -------------We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial. This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.How can you help?If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighborsIf you don't like something here, please let me knowAnd if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We'll share and show you what and how we do what we doThrough this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot comThe music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.I hope you enjoy!------------------You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

WBZ NewsRadio’s James Rojas reports.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This session shares part of the Franklin (MA) Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. The Council held this session as scheduled beginning at 6 PM. All 9 Councilors participated (1 remotely) for this 4 hour session. 1612 - covers the opening, Citizen comments, recognitions, alcohol license renewals and everything else except the snow update (see 1613) and the charter discussion (see 1614) (approx. 2 hours 27 mins)1613 - segment from the meeting covering the full discussion on the DPW snow update (approx. 58 minutes) https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/7855/Snow-Presentation---December-17-2025 1614 - segment from the meeting covering the full discussion on the charter change process (approx. 45 mins) https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/7848/2023-11-01-Town-Charter-Presentation --------------Additional notes on the meeting recap can be found ->https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/12/town-council-closes-out-year-approving.html -------------We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial. This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.How can you help?If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighborsIf you don't like something here, please let me knowAnd if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We'll share and show you what and how we do what we doThrough this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot comThe music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.I hope you enjoy!------------------You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

This session shares part of the Franklin (MA) Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. The Council held this session as scheduled beginning at 6 PM. All 9 Councilors participated (1 remotely) for this 4 hour plus session. 1612 - covers the opening, Citizen comments, recognitions, alcohol license renewals and everything else except the snow update (see 1613) and the charter discussion (see 1614) (approx. 2 hours 27 mins)1613 - segment from the meeting covering the full discussion on the DPW snow update (approx. 58 minutes) https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/7855/Snow-Presentation---December-17-2025 1614 - segment from the meeting covering the full discussion on the charter change process (approx. 45 mins) https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/7848/2023-11-01-Town-Charter-Presentation --------------Additional notes on the meeting recap can be found ->https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/12/town-council-closes-out-year-approving.html -------------We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial. This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.How can you help?If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighborsIf you don't like something here, please let me knowAnd if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We'll share and show you what and how we do what we doThrough this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot comThe music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.I hope you enjoy!------------------You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

This session shares part of the Franklin (MA) Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. The Council held this session as scheduled beginning at 6 PM. All 9 Councilors participated (1 remotely) for this 4 hour session. 1612 - covers the opening, Citizen comments, recognitions, alcohol license renewals and everything else except the snow update (see 1613) and the charter discussion (see 1614) (approx. 2 hours 27 mins)1613 - segment from the meeting covering the full discussion on the DPW snow update (approx. 58 minutes) https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/7855/Snow-Presentation---December-17-2025 1614 - segment from the meeting covering the full discussion on the charter change process (approx. 45 mins) https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/7848/2023-11-01-Town-Charter-Presentation --------------Additional notes on the meeting recap can be found ->https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/12/town-council-closes-out-year-approving.html -------------We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial. This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.How can you help?If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighborsIf you don't like something here, please let me knowAnd if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We'll share and show you what and how we do what we doThrough this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot comThe music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.I hope you enjoy!------------------You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

This week in Portland, we're looking into why five city council members are lawyering up, the controversial multibillion-dollar idea to revitalize a coastal town, and a check-in on three local labor disputes. Joining host Claudia Meza on this week's Friday news roundup are KBOO news director Althea Billings and our very own senior producer, Giulia Fiaoni. Discussed in Today's Episode: Law Firm That Regularly Sues the City Over Police Misconduct Is Representing Peacock Councilors [Willamette Week]   Oregon's Leading Politicians Want To Bet Billions of Dollars on a New Shipping Terminal. Critics Say It's a Costly Mistake. [Willamette Week]   Strike Averted: New Seasons Grocery Workers Secure First Labor Contract [Portland Mercury]  Legacy Health Strike Grows as 80 Urgent Care, Pediatric Care Providers Plan Walkouts [Oregonian] Starbucks Workers Rally One Month Into Strike [Willamette Week]  Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this December 19th episode: Portland Spirit PaintCare PGE

Tonight is the Final Meeting for Albuquerque City Council which means it is also the final meeting for some well-known Councilors. Who is moving on and what could change in City Council for 2026?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Clark County Council adopted the 2026 budget including a 1 percent property tax increase across multiple funds to maintain services despite rising costs. Councilors discussed fiscal challenges, electric vehicle tax impacts, and strategic financial planning. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/clark-county-council-votes-to-increase-property-tax-by-1-percent/ #ClarkCounty #PropertyTax #Budget2026

This session shares the Franklin (MA) Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. The Council held this session as scheduled beginning at 6 PM. All 9 Councilors participated for this 3 hour session. Quick recap:Franklin TV had trouble broadcasting the video. It was recorded and will be available later. The Zoom session was active for audio only.Town Administrator Jamie Hellen walked the new Council though the 5 year revenue forecast and laid out what's coming nextThe Public hearing on the Tax rate was opened and ultimately closed after much discussion. The Council did vote to approve the single tax rate by an 8-1 vote. The Council indicated a strong appetite for more info on the benefits of a split tax rate.The recording runs about 3 hours --------------Franklin TV video is NOT yet available for replay -> The agenda for this session -> https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_12032025-2031 My notes for the full meeting in one PDF -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zZoXOBk167dHuuSm3wetBhhP25WyaSRf/view?usp=drive_link -------------We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial. This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.How can you help?If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighborsIf you don't like something here, please let me knowAnd if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We'll share and show you what and how we do what we doThrough this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot comThe music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.I hope you enjoy!------------------You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

This session shares the Franklin (MA) Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, November 19, 2025. The Council held this session as scheduled beginning at 6 PM. All 9 Councilors participated during the early portion of this meeting. Councilor Cormier-Leger was traveling and joined remotely for part of the meeting. All of the other 8 councilors were in Council Chambers for this session.Quick recap:The vote to join the GIC passed 9-0The vote to approve the budget adjustment was approved 9-0. TA Hellen to hold on posting for the Communications role pending further discussion with the Town CouncilAfter much discussion, the vote to rescind the vote on the approval of the "friendly 40b" for 444 East Central St was approved by 5-1 (Morrongiello no; Grella, Malloy both recused themselves; Cormier-leger was not online at the time of the final vote)The recording runs about 4 hours & 20 minutes--------------Franklin TV video is available for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xGGEiz-8dlM The agenda for this session -> https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_11192025-2010 My notes for the full meeting in one PDF -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/19-3d9qq6zRWsk0GedQJ6NUm6Q425CldU/view?usp=drive_link -------------We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial. This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.How can you help?If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighborsIf you don't like something here, please let me knowAnd if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We'll share and show you what and how we do what we doThrough this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot comThe music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.I hope you enjoy!------------------You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

WBZ NewsRadio’s Kyle Bray reports.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This session shares the Franklin (MA) Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, November 12, 2025. The Council held the first session of its legislative term as scheduled at 6 PM. All 9 Councilors participated during the early portion of this meeting. Councilor Cormier-Leger was traveling and joined remotely for the organizational votes. All of the other 8 councilors were in Council Chambers for this session.Quick recap:Town Clerk Nancy Danello officially & publicly swore in the new Council.Town Administrator Hellen opened nominations for the Chair. Cormier-Leer nominated Dellorco, second by Ojukwo. No other nominations were made. Vote on the nomination passed by 9-0Dellorco took the gavel and opened nominations for Vice Chair. Griffith nominated Ojukwo. Callaway-Tripp nominated Grella. No other nominations. Vote by each person for one or the other tallied as follow with Grella getting 5, Ojukwo getting 4.Ojukwo - Cormier-Leger, Ojukwo, Griffith, Morrongiello (4)Grella - Grella, Malloy, LeBlanc, Callaway-Tripp, Dellorco (5)Dellorco takes nominations for Clerk. and nominates Cormier-Leger. No other nominations. Vote on the motion, passes 9-0Vote to appoint Griffith as Clerk in Cormier-Leger's absence (2 meetings), passed by 9-0 vote.The remainder of the meeting covers the key items on the lengthy set of documents around Town Charter, Town Code, Conflict of Interest, Open Meeting law, etc.The recording runs about 3 hours & 20 minutes--------------Franklin TV video link -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lsYVvhWdqWs The agenda doc rich with links -> https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_11122025-2001 My notes in one PDF -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gZpUPlE873EPMJqfT42KhLsTzxZjSLIf/view?usp=drive_link -------------We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial. This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.How can you help?If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighborsIf you don't like something here, please let me knowAnd if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We'll share and show you what and how we do what we doThrough this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot comThe music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.I hope you enjoy!------------------You can also subscribe and listen to...

A Skamania County Sheriff's Office report concludes that four Clark County councilors and County Manager Kathleen Otto violated procedures and laws when removing Councilor Michelle Belkot from the C-TRAN Board. The report recommends fines, a possible misconduct charge, and a reprimand as the case moves to outside prosecutors. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/report-four-clark-county-councilors-and-the-county-manager-violated-rules-when-booting-member-from-c-tran-board/ #ClarkCounty #VancouverWA #SkamaniaCounty #CountyCouncil #CTRAN #MichelleBelkot #KathleenOtto #PublicMeetings #Accountability #LocalGovernment

This session shares the Franklin (MA) Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, October 29, 2025. The Council held the last session of its legislative term as scheduled at 7 PM. All 9 Councilors were present in Chambers for this session.Quick recap:Approximately the first 45 minutes of the meeting were taken up with multiple citizen comments, many on the 444 East Central development proposal which while one of their complaints is that the Council doesn't listen to them, also ironically indicates that they haven't listened or don't understand the meaning of due processOne comment revealed the first annual Caregiver Appreciation day scheduled for Nov 7 at the Senior Center from 11 - 3 PM. (Note, on that the day the regular Senior Center activities are canceled)Appointments to the Agricultural Commission - Jennifer Sweeney (Associate Seat) and to the Council on Aging - Roberta Trahan were both approved by 9-0 votesThe Public Hearing, originally scheduled for Oct 15, and continued to this date, was opened and eventually closed with no public or Council comments on the multiple modifications of a Section 15 Package Store All Alcoholic Beverages License: Change of License Manager... Doing business as Liquor World. The measure was approved by 9-0 voteThe Council approved a Farmer-Winery Farmers Market License - Blisspoint LLC d/b/a Blisspoint Meadery by a 9-0 votePresentation: Franklin Elks Riders Donation to Veterans' Services Department. Veterans Service Officer, Shannon Nisbett received the check for $2000 from this year's ridesResolution 25-70: Adoption of Cannabis licensing Local Approval Process and Cannabis Social Equity Policy (Motion to Approve Resolution 25-70 - Majority Vote) Moved, second. The proposal is modeled after that of Shrewsbury as they are the only 1 approved now, 100+ communities remain to develop one and get theirs approved. This is an example of additional revenue from cannabis, almost $.5m yearly total. NETA has done well hereGift acceptance, $10,000 from Adirondack ClubResolution 25-67: Expenditure Limits for FY2026 on Departmental Revolving Funds Established by Franklin Town Code Chapter 73, as Provided in MGL Chapter 44, §53 E½, as Amended (Electric Vehicle Charging Stations) approved by 9-0 vote, may need to adjusted upward as time goes and action on this revenue stream increasesFrom the Town Administrator's Report Purchase of the SNETT extension is complete, now owned by the Town, Work remains to be funded and completed but the registry of deeds has the record of ownershipFormally closed on Franklin Ridge, contracts going out to bid, info sessions in the spring on lottery process etc. Construction once begun is anticipated to go 18-24 monthsApproximately, the remaining 40 minutes of the meeting were Councilor Comments reflecting on accomplishments for this term, recognition of the 3 not running for re-election, etc.The recording runs about 2 hours & 12 minutes--------------The Franklin TV video is available for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NIgSJh9fWjAThe agenda and associated documents for this session -> https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10292025-1978My full set of notes in one PDF -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XVFpF-Gf2ULj1avVodFT4RXGkXMvWvg5/view?usp=drive_link -------------We are now producing this in

Aubrey Masango speaks to Prince Mashele, Political Analyst, about the significance of councilors having formal qualifications, and what this means for governance. Tags: 702, Aubrey Masango show, Bra Aubrey, Prince Mashele, 2026 Local Elections, KZN, CoGTA The Aubrey Masango Show is presented by late night radio broadcaster Aubrey Masango. Aubrey hosts in-depth interviews on controversial political issues and chats to experts offering life advice and guidance in areas of psychology, personal finance and more. All Aubrey’s interviews are podcasted for you to catch-up and listen. Thank you for listening to this podcast from The Aubrey Masango Show. Listen live on weekdays between 20:00 and 24:00 (SA Time) to The Aubrey Masango Show broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and on CapeTalk between 20:00 and 21:00 (SA Time) https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk Find out more about the show here https://buff.ly/lzyKCv0 and get all the catch-up podcasts https://buff.ly/rT6znsn Subscribe to the 702 and CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/v5mfet Follow us on social media: 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/Radio702 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702 CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eight former ActionSA councillors in Johannesburg are heading to court to challenge their removal from the City council. They claim their dismissal was procedurally flawed and politically motivated. The matter will be heard in the High Court tomorrow (Tuesday). The councillors argue that ActionSA ignored their rights by proceeding with replacement processes despite receiving cease and desist letters. They say the case is about fairness, accountability and democratic procedure. Elvis Presslin spoke to Elmari Atterbury, Spokesperson for the applicants and ActionSA National Chairperson, Michael Beaumont

Tensions between Gov. Kelly Ayotte and members of the state's Executive Council boiled over this week, as the council tabled more than 20 state contracts to protest what they say is a withholding of information by the governor. And the Claremont School District continues to grapple with $5 million budget deficit. Republicans in Concord debated this week over how much the state should step in to help out. We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap with the New Hampshire Bulletin's Ethan DeWitt and Keene Sentinel's Rick Green.

WBZ NewsRadio's James Rojas reports. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This morning we take a look into the presidential election as the deadline for nominations approaches. Maria Steen and Gareth Sheridan will need more support from Councilors, TD's and Senators if they want to become the next presidential candidate. And Meta has removed Facebook posts about Jim Gavin for violating standards. All to discuss with Harry McGee Political Correspondent Irish Times.

Reform Clark County founder Rob Anderson has withdrawn his complaint against four Clark County councilors after a flaw in his filings was revealed. Judge Camara Banfield suggested the withdrawal during a hearing on alleged Open Public Meetings Act violations tied to Michelle Belkot's removal from the C-TRAN board. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/reform-clark-county-founder-withdraws-complaint-against-clark-county-councilors/ #ReformClarkCounty #ClarkCounty #RobAnderson #OpenPublicMeetingsAct #ClarkCountyCouncil #CTANBoard #VancouverWA #SueMarshall #WilFuentes #MichelleBelkot

Portland city councilors are under fire for flying to Vienna, Austria, to “study” social housing — with taxpayers footing the bill. About 20 people, including three councilors, chiefs of staff, and housing bureau staff, are making the trip.Supporters say Vienna is the global “gold standard” for social housing and that seeing it in person will help Portland craft long-term solutions for affordable housing. Critics argue the trip is unnecessary, too expensive, and could have been done virtually.

A controversial project to build a new Google data center on the city's southeast side could face a final challenge tonight. A new treatment facility for people with substance use problems opened on Indianapolis' west side. Hundreds of Indianapolis students gathered on Friday afternoon at the Indiana Statehouse as part of a nationwide rally for gun safety reform. The Indianapolis Colts Sunday win over the Miami Dolphins 33-8 came without one familiar face in attendance — former team owner Jim Irsay. Irsay passed away in May at the age of 65. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

On Wednesday, Tulsa's City Council is set to vote on an ordinance that would limit what Tulsans can do on sidewalks and medians. The proposed ordinance comes after two incidents, one in 2023, and one in 2024, where two separate people were killed while standing in center medians.Councilor Phil Lakin, who spoke to The Frontier on Monday about the ordinance, said it was about public safety. Many medians in Tulsa are narrow, and in zones where the speed limit is above 25 miles per hour, he believes standing in the median is a safety hazard. The ordinance would also potentially apply to sidewalks that are within 18 inches of the street as well.But when it comes to enforcement, some, including City Councilor Laura Bellis, fear the ordinance will only be applied to those panhandling, and she fears fines associated with the ordinance could prove too costly.On this episode of Listen Frontier, we hear from Bellis, Lakin, and Deputy Council Administrator Sarah Davis ahead of Wednesday's meeting. This is Listen Frontier, a podcast exploring the investigative journalism of the Frontier and featuring conversations with those on the frontlines of Oklahoma's most important stories. Listen to us Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Stitcher.To donate to The Frontier and help support our efforts to grow investigative journalism in Oklahoma, click here.

The Clark County Council voted 3-2 to end the FBI's access to the Camp Bonneville firearms range after a theft of 12,000 rounds of ammunition. Councilors split over whether trust with the FBI was broken, with some warning the move could drive federal training dollars elsewhere. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/clark-county-says-fbi-no-longer-can-use-camp-bonneville-firearms-range/ #ClarkCounty #FBI #CampBonneville #AmmunitionTheft #LawEnforcement #Vancouver #BrushPrairie #CouncilVote #FirearmsRange #PublicSafety

City and county councilors Bart Hansen and Michelle Belkot offer early takes on Vancouver's proposed annexations of unincorporated Clark County. The smallest proposal could add 1,700 residents; the largest, over 170,000. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/two-councilors-share-their-initial-views-on-annexation-proposals/ #VancouverWA #Annexation #ClarkCounty #CityCouncil #MichelleBelkot #BartHansen #UrbanGrowthArea #CompleteStreets

参院選候補の演説会で演説する自民党の鶴保庸介氏、８日、和歌山市自民党の鶴保庸介参院予算委員長は１４日、「運のいいことに能登で地震があった」と発言した責任を取り、予算委員長の辞任願を関口昌一議長宛てに提出し許可された。 Yosuke Tsuruho of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party on Monday resigned as chairman of the House of Councilors' Budget Committee after being criticized by both ruling and opposition lawmakers for his recent remark about last year's Noto Peninsula earthquake in central Japan.

Rob Anderson's lawsuit over the removal of Michelle Belkot from the C-TRAN board was delayed after a judge didn't receive case files in time. The hearing is now set for July 9, just one day after the C-TRAN board's next meeting. Anderson alleges Open Public Meetings Act violations and says delays favor the defense. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/rob-andersons-case-against-four-clark-county-councilors-delayed/ #RobAnderson #ClarkCounty #CTRAN #OpenMeetings #PublicComment #ClarkCountyCouncil #MichelleBelkot #LightRail #CouncilLawsuit #WashingtonLaw

On Wednesday, Portland’s 12 city councilors stayed late considering a number of amendments to the city’s budget - both large and small. OPB's Portland city politics reporter Alex Zielinski was there and tells us what it all means.

Michael Nyman has made a career by being on the leading edge of marketing trends. With this latest venture he has created another new go to market strategy. Nyman, the former long time PMK*BNC Co-Chairman & CEO, has now launched Acceleration, a new investment vehicle & advisory firm. With Acceleration, Nyman will be developing a new go-to market business approach with a series of strategic and complementary acquisitions and build outs aimed at providing a unique collective of specialized agencies, designed to help clients move quickly and efficiently with their branding, marketing and media decisions.Nyman, a 30-year veteran, started his own firm, Bragman Nyman Cafarelli (along with founder Howard Bragman and co-founder Brad Cafarelli) in 1991, before selling it to Interpublic Group of Companies (IPG:NYSE) in the fall of 2000, and leading the firm through its transition to a public company and subsequent expansion. In the fall of 2009, Nyman was asked to lead the merger combining the talent powerhouse of PMK with BNC's established leadership in not only communications, but also marketing services and expertise in merging brands with entertainment. Within five years PMK*BNC had doubled its revenue and built up to 300 employees representing nearly 1,000 entertainment and Fortune 500 clients.For more than two decades of work with BNC and PMK*BNC, Nyman has architected and contributed to numerous award-winning campaigns and/or counseled clients, including Samsung, Pepsi, American Express, Avon and BeatsbyDre to Product(Red), Jordan Brand (Nike), The Television Academy (Emmys), Shonda Rhimes, JC Penny, The Academy of Country Music (ACM's), Warner Bros, Digital Networks Group and Condé Nast.Nyman has served on multiple boards over the past two decades. Currently he is the Chairman of the California Film Commission, serves on the Board of Governors at Cedars-Sinai and the Board of Councilors for USC's Annenberg School of Communications and Journalism.

Listen every weekday for a local newscast featuring town, county, state and regional headlines. It's the daily dose of news you need on Wyoming, Idaho and the Mountain West — all in four minutes or less. 

The Missoula City Council last week approved a plan to build a large housing development for senior citizens. Councilors said affordable, senior-friendly housing was a need in the city and the state as a whole.

CCE-850ALast week I asked listeners of the podcast to let me know if they were tuning in, and sure enough, several of you did reach out! So, perhaps this Friday edition of the newsletter going out as a podcast will continue. Today's edition doesn't have any new information but instead is an audio summary of some of what has been going on with voices from some of the decision-makers.I'm Sean Tubbs, and this one's a bit of a puzzle to put together. In the print edition below you'll see new versions of a couple of the stories as I had to develop a new script. I have not included the images, but these podcasts will now have normal shout-outs. No more house ads!Two stories in this edition, both about Charlottesville's budget for FY2026:* City Council makes last minute decisions at final work session before tonight's vote on $265M budget* Council adopts $265.2 million budget after another conversation about transit fundingFirst shout-out: Plant Virginia NativesSpring is here and there's still time to plan for upgrades to your outdoors. You can take some time to get ready for spring! Check out Plant Virginia Natives!Plant Virginia Natives is part of a partnership with ten regional campaigns for ten different ecosystems across Virginia, from the Northern Piedmont to the Eastern Shore. Take a look at the full map below for the campaign for native species where you are in the Commonwealth. For the Charlottesville area, download a free copy of the handbook: Piedmont Native Plants: A Guide for Landscapes and Gardens.Plant Northern Piedmont Natives is for anyone who works with native plants, whether you are a property owner, private consultant, landscape designer, nursery operator, conservation group, or local government.(image)A summary of the April 10, 2025 Charlottesville City Council budget work sessionOne of the challenges of doing a podcast version at the end of a week is that I may have to rearrange two previous stories in order for the audio edition to make sense. That's the case this week with Charlottesville City Council's adoption of a $265.2 million budget for fiscal year 2026. That happened on April 14 at a special meeting.But before we get to that, we have to go back to the work session held on April 10.In Charlottesville, the budget process never really stops. In fact, it keeps on going up to the last minute of adoption. New items were added at the work session that had not previously come up.At the beginning of the April 10 work session, they learned about additional spending that can happen because new funding has been found since the beginning of the budget process in March.“We do have supplemental revenue over and above the proposed budget of $774,263,” said Krisy Hammill, the city's budget director.The driver of that change was an additional $700,000 increase in Business and Professional Licenses that had not been factored in.There were many numbers thrown around during the final work session. Before Council signed off on how to spend that money, City Manager Sam Sanders went through how $915,620 in “Council Discretionary Funds” would be spent to leave a balance of $440,406 to spend.“Kind of thinking that with all the volatility that we have in DC, there could very easily be a series of moments that come up and that this would give you the flexibility to make some decisions and how we could support gaps in what could happen based on decisions and how it actually lands in the community,” Sanders said.Staff codified a list of what Council had already decided to spend over the course of four budget work sessions.* $250,000 to the Blue Ridge Coalition for the Homeless to cover the costs of a federal grant not obtained because there was an error related to a recent leadership transition.* $162,000 to the Piedmont Housing Alliance to pay for the cost of staff who work on eviction prevention.* $50,000 in cash to the Piedmont Housing Alliance related to eviction prevention.* An additional $43,150 to the Boys and Girls Club for a total of $116,000 in the FY26 budget.* An additional $28,800 to Lighthouse Studios to fund two programs for a total funding of $40,000 in the FY26 budget.* An additional $6,000 to Loaves and Fishes to bring their total funding to $50,000 for FY26.* An additional $1,200 to Piedmont CASA for a total of $10,000.* An additional $6,600 to Live Arts for a total of $16,000.* An additional $7,100 to Legal Aid Justice Center for a total of $40,000* An additional $1,500 to SARA for a total of $25,000.* A total of $104,261 in capital improvement program funds will be redirected to the Dogwood Vietnam Memorial. Read this story for more information.At the meeting, Hammill handed out a spreadsheet that provided more details about other programs that were added to the list such as an annual payment to the Jefferson School African American Heritage Center. This was initially left out of the budget because the organization did not fill out an application through a portal called Zoom Grants.The payment to the Jefferson School African American Heritage Center was $228,993 in FY2024 and $246,993 in FY2025. The organization is considered fundamental which means it no longer has to compete for funding through the Vibrant Community Fund process . The payment for FY2026 will be $228,200.“By not submitting through Zoom Grants, they didn't appear on the list, but they didn't know that they had to still submit through Zoom Grants,” Sanders said. “So we have some course corrections that we need to do there and making sure that everyone understands what they have to do still, even though they're in a non competitive round.”Sanders said there was a similar error with the Charlottesville Redevelopment and Housing Authority. That government body is considered “fundamental” but also sought additional funding.“We have to have a conversation with them about their pursuits of funding going forward to your point they could be here and in the competitive rounds,” Sanders said. “I don't particularly care for that. I think that makes it double dipping.”Sanders said Deputy City Manager James Freas and the Office of Community Solutions are currently performing an audit of CRHA as a way of building a better working relationship.City Councilor Michael Payne, a member of the CRHA Board, called for a joint work session to plan for the likelihood of reduced federal funding for public housing units.At one point in the conversation, Council initially signaled a willingness to add an additional $16,000 to the United Way for their Prosper program. Deputy City Manager Ashley Marshall made a pitch for the program at the April 10 meeting. The program had previously been called the Financial Resiliency Task Force.Another last minute item is $30,000 for the Tonsler League headed by former City Councilor and current CRHA Chair Wes Bellamy. The organization had expected that the City of Charlottesville would have received an additional $250,000 from the state government for operations, but Governor Glenn Youngkin recently vetoed that from the budget.“He received a $250,000 grant for this current year that ends in June,” Sanders said. “I am planning to check with him to see if. If he will expend all of that and avoid the risk of having to send anything back.”Council supported giving the Tonsler League $30,000.At half an hour into the final budget work session held three days after the final public hearing, Sanders asked Council if there was any other item they might want to fund and gave them the current balance.“The question that we are really posing at this point is, is there anything else that you all have been pondering?” Sanders asked. “Because we try to remind you that this is the end of the road and we are truly down to $394,000 that today, right now at this moment, is your Council Strategic Initiatives Fund.”That prompted Councilor Lloyd Snook to express a concern.“So we haven't even gotten to the fiscal year and we've already cut it down?” Snook asked.“That's correct,” Sanders said.Snook said he felt the process was not appropriate.“I find myself trying to figure out what possible process we're advancing here,” Snook said. “And the answer is it's still back to whatever anybody throws up against the wall at Council at the last minute. I just think that's a terrible way to do business.”Sanders said he understood Snook's concern.“I understand and appreciate the last minute nature of it and I'm not a fan of always doing that and I think in these, this, these two moments specifically, we can identify a way to bring you critical information so that you can have that presented to you and then you can make that determination on if you believe the item is ready to go forward,” Sanders said, adding that both Marshall and Bellamy could appear before Council to formally make a pitch.There were at least three Councilors who supported funding for Tonsler, but not yet for the Prosper Program.There was also a long discussion about increasing the number of transit drivers to 82 in order to restore service to pre-pandemic levels. This comment from Sanders finishes off that discussion and sets up a conversation for the future.“I think what I heard was that you are not going to attempt to unpack the budget at this late stage and find a way to make 82 drivers a reality,” Sanders said. “But what you are indicating is that you support the desire for added drivers and that you're looking to have us revisit that with you at some point in the future later in 2025 for the possible consideration of the use of one time funds for the bridge that would be required to get us to the next budget where we will realize the true cost.”Sanders also said he still wants to hold on to the $22.4 million surplus from FY2024 in case federal programs are cut.“The conversations that are being had in regards to SNAP and Medicaid are real in that they're big,” Sanders said. “And if those cuts were to occur, we will see a number of our constituency impacted directly by that.”Sanders said that while the city is blessed to have a large surplus, it will go very quickly if the local government picks up what had been a federal program.Tonight's meeting to adopt is not the end of the process. Because of a second advertising error, Council still has to hold a public hearing on the tax rates and that will take place at the next regular meeting on April 21. By law, Council cannot adopt those tax rates at that meeting and must wait at least three days. A second special meeting will be held on April 24.I had hoped to tell you more about the next three items by going back to the audio, but I've got to get to the next set of stories:* Sanders had an update on a potential low-barrier shelter. The General Assembly's version of the budget had $1.5 million going to the City of Charlottesville for this purpose, and Youngkin cut this in half. The budget has not yet been finalized and Sanders said Senator Creigh Deeds is still trying to make the case to restore the funding.* Sanders said he believes the city would need to provide operating funds to any grocery that sets up at 501 Cherry Avenue.* There is still a possibility that the city might provide funding for UVA's affordable housing project at 10th and Wertland. They will be asked to submit a request as part of the next funding cycle this fall.Second shout-out: Piedmont Master Gardeners seek items for Green Elephant SaleIf you are cleaning out your garage or basement this winter and have garden implements or yard ornaments you no longer need, the Piedmont Master Gardeners will take them off your handsThe Piedmont Master Gardeners are seeking donations of new and used garden tools, hoses, decorative items, outdoor furniture, and virtually anything else that can be used to maintain or enjoy a home landscape. From February 1 through April 30, these "Green Elephant" donations may be dropped off at 402 Albemarle Square between 10 a.m. and noon on Wednesdays or Saturdays. The Master Gardeners are not able to accept plastic pots or opened chemicals.The Green Elephants will be offered for sale to the public during PMG's Spring Plant Sale, scheduled for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 3, at Albemarle Square Shopping Center. Proceeds will support the many free and low-cost horticulture education programs the Piedmont Master Gardeners offer to the community.To arrange a pickup of large items or for more information, contact the Piedmont Master Gardeners at greenelephant@piedmontmastergardeners.org.(image)Council adopts $265.2 million budget after another conversation about transit fundingCharlottesville City Council adopted a $265.2 million budget for the fiscal year that begins on July 1 at a special meeting on April 14 but not before another review and summary from City Manager Sam Sanders. He had introduced a $264,474,183 budget on March 4.“Things have changed a little bit, as it always does, from the proposed date to your adoption date,” Sander saidThere have been five budget work sessions and two public hearings on the document itself, but yet to come is a public hearing on the tax rates for 2025.“What I'll point out to you just in basic highlights, is that the revenue expenditure at this time has now risen to $265,248,446,” Sanders said.The tax rates have not changed for 2025, but another year of growth in assessments has resulted in more revenue. The assessor's office reported an average of a 7.74 percent increase in late January.One spending change in the budget is an additional $600,000 for Charlottesville Area Transit which partially came out of a push for local advocates.“We added a transit mechanic to help with operations,” Sanders said. “We are also maintaining fare free service across the system and absorbing the absence of the flexible federal funds because those funds are now not available to us as they have been.”Other highlights:* There's $5.4 million over the next five years for sidewalk repair and construction* There's $12.7 million in spending on affordable housing initiatives in FY26* The FY26 budget is the first to apply to a fourth collective bargaining unitCity Councilor Michael Payne asked about the status of a $22.4 million surplus from FY2024. Sanders made the decision to keep the amount in reserve and Council has so far agreed. The idea is to keep the money available while a new era for the federal government continues to settle in. He also said he has been meeting with nonprofit groups who have been making presentations on funding they have lost from the federal government.“So they are first trying to recoup what they've spent and hope that they might actually get some continuation,” Sanders said. “So that is beginning to build. We're beginning to see that finally the city organization itself has not incurred a loss. But we still continue to monitor just believing that it's just a matter of time. It's not a matter of if, it is actually a matter of when.”A generally-held practice in municipal budgeting is to not use one-time money such as surpluses to hire staffing.“Something like staffing is not ideal because we can't guarantee that funding to occur year to year,” said City Councilor Natalie Oschrin.The conversation went back to transit. The City of Charlottesville owns Charlottesville Area Transit and has full control of its operations. Albemarle County and Charlottesville have entered into an entity called the Charlottesville Albemarle Regional Transit Authority but so far that is entirely about planning for transit operations.Albemarle Supervisors vote to join Regional Transit Authority, December 15, 2024Charlottesville joins regional transit authority; Council holds first reading on federal transit allocations, December 28, 2024Charlottesville Area Transit has no independent board of directors which makes Council the sole authority over its operations. There had once been an advisory body made up of citizens but that was eliminated sometime during the pandemic.An advocacy group called IMPACT made up of various churches has been pressuring Albemarle and Charlottesville to increase the amount they spent on transit to hire additional drivers. Their specific number has been 82, a number believed to enable Charlottesville Area Transit to increase service.“The solution to long wait times is very straightforward: we need more bus drivers,” reads their website. “Right now, Charlottesville Area Transit (CAT) has budgeted 67 drivers. Getting to wait times of half an hour will require at least 80.”In Virginia, cities and counties are completely independent of each other. There are regional services such as that provided by the Rivanna Water and Service Authority, but localities have to adopt budgets independently.IMPACT's public event was held on April 8, over a month into the budget process for Charlottesville and about six weeks after Albemarle County Executive Jeffrey Richardson introduced that locality's budget.At their work session on April 10, City Council indicated they wanted to support IMPACT's request but the timing is not right for the existing budget. They agreed to hold conversations about how to get there shortly after the budget is adopted.Vice Mayor Brian Pinkston and Charlottesville City Council were the two members of Council who went to hear from IMPACT at what they call the Nehemiah Action.“The commitment that the two of us made was to try to get something for this coming the fiscal year that we're working on now, which means some sort of amendment or whatever,” said City Councilor Brian Pinkston.Several members of the group were in attendance at the meeting and Pinkston addressed them directly from the dais and encouraged them to get involved earlier in the budget process.“I want people to know that this is not the end,” Pinkston said. “We heard you last week, we're working on it. And what you're hearing now is the sort of public outworking of the conversations that need to happen.”For over four years of reporting on transit issues, take a look at this tab on Information Charlottesville.Council adopted the budget after a final explanation of last minute changes such as $30,000 for the Tonsler League to help keep it going after Governor Youngkin vetoed an anticipated $250,000 from Virginia's budget.Council will hold a public hearing on the tax rate for 2025 on April 21 and then will hold a special meeting on April 24.Postscript for #850AToday's edition was intended to have additional audio but I ran out of time. Also the podcast edition can be less than half an hour long. The version that airs on WTJU has to be at least 29 minutes long. There was no radio version last week so I'm going to put another story or two in that version from #846-A. Behind the scenes I have quite a bit of organization that allows me to seemingly produce more content than entities with budgets that are much larger than mine. One day there will be more of everything. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit communityengagement.substack.com/subscribe

Albuquerque Fire Rescue Chief Emily Jaramillo is the first woman to serve as Fire Chief in the department's 123-year history. As a former teacher, Jaramillo was compelled to switch careers when she had a recruiter come talk to her class. She joins Chris and Gabby this week to discuss the challenges and fulfilling parts of the job. She also discusses a contentious City Council meeting that had her in the hot seat defending a controversial staffing change she believes will improve response times in the city and ultimately help save lives in an emergency. Why did city councilors quash her staffing plan? Is Chief Jaramillo going against the so-called 'gold standard?' Those topics and more are explained in the full interview.  March 3rd Albuquerque City Council Meeting We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST. 

Disclaimer: This podcast does not provide medical advice. The content of this podcast is provided for informational or educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health issue without consulting your doctor. Always seek medical advice before making any lifestyle changes. Dr. Dawn Mussallem is a distinguished consultant in the Division of Hematology Oncology at Mayo Clinic and an Assistant Professor of Medicine. As a board-certified lifestyle medicine breast specialist at The Robert and Monica Jacoby Center for Breast Health, she plays a vital role in advancing evidence-based, holistic breast cancer care. She also serves as Chair of Mayo Clinic Florida's Employee Well-being Committee, Medical Director for the Humanities in Medicine program & Councilor at Large for the Officers & Councilors of the Mayo Clinic staff. In 2015, Dr. Mussallem founded the Integrative Medicine & Breast Health Program at Mayo Clinic Florida, a patient-centered initiative that supports breast cancer patients during & after their diagnosis. The program emphasizes optimizing lifestyle practices alongside conventional cancer treatments. Her mission is to reframe cancer as a “teacher of life,” helping patients discover renewed vitality through healthier living. Currently, she leads Mayo Clinic's regenerative farm project which aims to provide nutrient-rich plant-based foods to patients, employees, learners, & food-insecure individuals in the community, demonstrating the interconnected benefits for human & planetary health. With more than 25 years of patient-centered clinical wellness experience, Dr. Mussallem is internationally recognized in cancer prevention, lifestyle medicine, integrative oncology, & cancer survivorship. Her personal journey—including a stage IV cancer diagnosis just three months into medical school and her experience as a heart transplant recipient in 2021 profoundly shapes her commitment to helping patients thrive during and after adversity. A sought-after international keynote and motivational speaker, Dr. Mussallem frequently appears on podcasts, webinars, radio, and television programs. She has authored numerous book chapters, journal articles, and abstracts, and serves as an editor for the Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, Wiley, and Mayo Clinic Proceedings. Her research focuses on exploring lifestyle's critical role in cancer prevention and management, particularly the impact of whole food, plant-based nutrition on the tumor microenvironment and cancer progression. She also investigates strategies to enhance quality of life for cancer survivors, examining the links between lifestyle modifications, longevity, and restorative well-being.

Send us a textBill Bartholomew welcomes Providence City Councilors Miguel Sanchez and Justin Roias for a conversation about their efforts to open a pop-up shelter for unhoused folks at Providence City Hall.Support the show

This is the last part of a four-part series with my lifelong friend Jimmy Childre, Jr. Jimmy's dad also joins us. Jimmy, who is on the Board of Councilors of the Carter Center, talks about Jimmy Carter, whose funeral was being held while we recorded this conversation. We end this series with some more profound questions for Jimmy.

Republican Christine Drazan is returning to a leadership role in Salem and she’s not the only change in the legislative power structure. Democrats switched things around as well. In Portland,  the new City Council is already putting in work, and part of that is cajoling colleagues to support their run for a new powerful position. Find the show anywhere you get your podcasts.