Podcasts about Local government

When Reform took over 10 local councils in England this summer, it offered the first glimpse of how the party might govern if it were to get into No 10. Helen Pidd reports. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus

Bosses in Medway insist signs warning drivers about School Street restrictions are clear enough, despite a tribunal overturning a fine.Chris Lee was sent a penalty notice for driving along Richmond Road in Gillingham which is one of a number of roads in the Towns where vehicles are banned during school drop off and pick up times.Hear from Chris and find out what the council have said in response.Also in today's podcast, a group of residents in Paddock Wood have started a campaign to try and stop almost 800 homes from being built on fields in the town which are prone to flooding.The development would also include a primary school, three traveller pitches and a local centre - and would be on a 90 hectare site of agricultural land.A Kent woman whose husband died while scuba diving has joined forces with three other widows in a bid to help others who're dealing with grief at Christmas.Ben Moss disappeared after failing to resurface in March 2018 and his body has never been found.Rosie, who lives in West Malling, was 37 at the time with three young children.The Old Town Hall in Gravesend is going to be transformed into an event and wedding space.The Grade II listed building on the High Street was sold by the county council in September as the authority couldn't afford to continue maintaining the site.It's been taken over by Olaide Dagunduro who's been running events with her husband for ten years.In sport,  it was a game of two halves for Gillingham on Saturday.They ended up with draw against Barrow despite being 2-0 up at half time - hear from manager Gareth Ainsworth.And, Chatham Town's women are through to the next stage after beating Sutton United 3-0.The draw for the fourth round takes place tonight. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The news of Texas covered today includes:Our Lone Star story of the day: New polling shows Jasmine ‘Crocked' Crockett leading Talarico in the Democrat Primary for the U.S. Senate nomination. (By they way, both are equally whiny but in different ways.)  But was it Crocked's extreme narcissism that allowed Republican operatives to essentially lure her into the race? We know those polls played a big role because Crocked said so.By the way, ol' devil head Carville says Rep Crockett's rhetoric is ‘more about herself' than voters .Our Lone Star story of the day is sponsored by Allied Compliance Services providing the best service in DOT, business and personal drug and alcohol testing since 1995.Oil and gas drilling rig count. A small bump up this week.Battleship Texas' restoration is getting closer to being finished. I'm ready to go and board her at Galveston Pier 15 in the next year or so. I've been following updates on Youtube, you can too at this link: https://www.youtube.com/@BattleshipTexasStench of Local Government stories: City of Houston tries to avoid liability by claiming a car crash is medical claim, court says no way. City of Austin to spend money on “gender-inclusive” restrooms to blunt state law. What hypocrisy! Aren't these the same people quoted often in the press about how silly it is for Republicans to be focused on bathrooms? Yet, who immediately starts spending money to build new bathrooms to appease a handful of sex-confused people? Listen on the radio, or station stream, at 5pm Central. Click for our radio and streaming affiliates.www.PrattonTexas.com

The long-awaited Humboldt Regional Climate Action Plan—a multi-jurisdictional strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions—is finally up for approval before the Board of Supervisors. (We say finally because the document, which sets emissions reduction targets for 2030, has been in the works since 2018. Seven years of work for a document with a shelf life of four years.) On this week's show, guests Colin Fiske of the Coalition for Responsible Transportation Priorities (CRTP) and Matt Simmons, Climate Attorney at EPIC, join the show to discuss the merits and demerits of the Climate Action Plan.Interested in more? Help urge the Board of Supervisors to adopt an improved Plan.Support the show

What's Wrong with Petitioning Your Local Government (2025-12-12) The right to petition your government is constitutionally protected and, as a part of the right to free speech, sacred in a democracy. But public input must be structured correctly to be effective. In two separate interviews, Sunil Dasgupta talks with former Montgomery County, Md, Planning Board Chair Casey Anderson, and parent activist Rebekah Kuschmider, about public input in development and education politics. Music by Kara Levchenko.

A panel of local government leaders talked about current issues with a group of WBJ Emerging Leaders on Dec. 4. 2025. Panelists were Wichita mayor Lily Wu, Council member Becky Tuttle, city manager Robert Layton, Sedgwick County Commission chair Ryan Baty and county manager Tom Stolz.

Star Tribune reporter Trey Mewes joins Korzo with the wild story of what's happening in the small town of Twin Lakes, Minnesota and why 34 of the 130 residents have signed a petition to dissolve the city's government.

Donald Trump has taken another swipe at Europe's “weak” leaders over Ukraine and immigration including a special mention for - surprise surprise - Sadiq Khan, who got a shout out for being a “horrible, vicious, disgusting mayor”. Honestly, why is he SO obsessed?!  But a Labour government trying to convince European allies to water down human rights law to deport people faster seems perfectly in line with Trump's vision. Nish and Coco are joined by Sky's Deputy Political Editor Sam Coates. They also take a dive into the latest allegation swirling around Reform UK - this time the party's election spending in Nigel Farage's Clacton constituency is under the spotlight. And the scale of the homelessness crisis always seems more acute at this time of year - so the Minister for Local Government and Homelessness, Alison McGovern, joins PSUK to explain how their new plan will be the one to finally make a difference. Finally - PSUK has watched the first episode of the Liz Truss Show, so you don't have to. Nish and Coco give it a rating out of one to limp lettuce. CHECK OUT THESE DEALS FROM OUR SPONSORS  BABBEL https://www.babbel.com/PSUK  AURA FRAMES https://www.auraframes.com Code: PSUK SHOPIFY Shopify.co.uk/podsavetheuk GUESTS  Sam Coates, Deputy Political Editor at Sky News Alison McGovern MP, Minister of State for Local Government and Homelessness USEFUL LINKS:  Nish's Carol Performance  CREDITS Politico  The Liz Truss Show / YouTube Keir Starmer MP / TikTok Rishi Sunak MP / TikTok Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/podsavetheuk.crooked.com Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@PodSavetheUK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The cost of water infrastructure projects have been rising as councils learn more details about what's required. Every council has now submitted their plan under Local Water Done Well programme. As Newstalk ZB first revealed last week, the final bill is now expected to reach almost $48 billion – about $9 billion more than first thought. Local Government New Zealand Vice-President and Gisborne Mayor Rehette Stoltz told Heather du Plessis Allan they've taken a more detailed look into costings over the whole ten years than they previously had. She says we're comparing a ten-year plan which wasn't as in depth, to the current very detailed plan. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The water service delivery plans have been submitted by local councils and evaluated, and the total is set to hit over $47 billion. Councils handed over these proposals as part of the Government's Local Water Done Well scheme and the Local Government Minister is hopeful these plans will go on to benefit ratepayers. Minister Simon Watts says these proposals have all been signed off and things are in a good place to get going. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is a Live with Mayor Collier for a focus on the 2026 Capital & Operating Budgets. Watch the full recording on the Town's YouTube channel & ajax.ca/MTHTo learn more & follow the budget process with us, visit: ajax.ca/2026BudgetJoin us as we discuss the Town of Ajax. Throughout each season we will be sitting down with the amazing people who make up the Town, from TOA staff and Council Members, to community leaders and small business owners. Check back with us monthly to hear new episodes right here or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. For any questions about TOA Talks, please contact corporate@ajax.ca.

Costs to fix our water infrastructure are increasing as we get a better picture of its current state. Every council has now submitted their plan under the Government's Local Water Done Well programme. As Newstalk ZB first revealed last week, the final bill is expected to be almost $48 billion - about $9 billion more than first thought. Water New Zealand Chief Executive Gillian Blythe told Andrew Dickens with all the plans submitted, we've now got a better picture of water infrastructure than we ever have before. She says it's like when you look at your own house and realise you've got to spend some money fixing a roof or painting a window. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jeff goes over some of the new changes that will be coming with a new governor administration.

The entire country has now been placed under a status orange weather as storm Bram is to bring gale force winds today. The warning will remain valid until 3pm. We get the latest updates with Matthew Martin from Met Eireann and also Keith Leonard, Director of Fire and Emergency Management at the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government.

The entire country has now been placed under a status orange weather as storm Bram is to bring gale force winds today. The warning will remain valid until 3pm. We get the latest updates with Matthew Martin from Met Eireann and also Keith Leonard, Director of Fire and Emergency Management at the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government.

A developer in Auckland is backing the Government taking control of what new housing pays for local infrastructure.  

The Longford Post Primary Tech Championships 2025 were held in Longford County Council on Tuesday, 2 December. The competition set a challenge for fifth-year computer science students to apply their study of the subject in the classroom to relevant real-life uses. Students from three schools, Meán Scoil Mhuire Longford, Ballymahon Vocational School and Templemichael College Longford, showcased their technology projects at the awards. Among them, Meán Scoil Mhuire students Olachi Alajemba and Margel Tuyogon were crowned Longford Post Primary Tech Champions for 2025. Their project was commended by the judges who noted that "it went beyond what was expected, showcased exceptional technical ability and was presented with enthusiasm in a confident and engaging presentation." The awards are co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the EU Just Transition Fund Programme 2021-2027. Organised and hosted by Longford County Council, the awards are supported by Ericsson Ireland, Microsoft Ireland and Irish Public Bodies (IPB). The overall €1,500 prize fund for the awards was sponsored by IPB, with €250 awarded to both Olachi and Margel with the remaining €1,000 awarded to Meán Scoil Mhuire. Mr Barry Lowry, Government Chief Information Officer; Dr Mihai Bilauca, Chief Information Officer and Head of Operations at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage; and Mr Sabahat Khan, Assistant Chief Executive and Chief Information Officer at the Local Government Management Agency were also in attendance. All the special guests took the opportunity to speak directly to the students, offering valuable insights shaped by their extensive experience in public service and technology leadership. Delivering the keynote address, Mr Lowry praised the students' ambitions and commended Longford County Council, along with the county's innovative teachers, for fostering an environment that encourages young people to explore technology and STEM. He highlighted their role in guiding students towards further study at third level and apprenticeships, opening pathways to future careers in these fields. Other awards were presented at the event and the winners included: Microsoft Ireland Longford Award: Toha Bello Salami, Washington Mahlangu and Clinton Osayande (Templemichael College Longford) Innovation Award: Ida Krauskopf, Sara Chamorro Ortega and Lois Wiafe (Templemichael College Longford) Ericsson Ireland Longford Award: Oleksii Volkov and Mindaugus Nemeikstis (Ballymahon Vocational School) Longford Primary Teacher Award: Dylan Boxwell and Karol Wilkosz (Ballymahon Vocational School) Best Presented Project Award: Mia O' Connor and Rachel Kelly Ward (Meán Scoil Mhuire Longford) Longford Climate Action Team Award: Destiny Amagwula, Adrian Majdanski and Noah Finegan (Hynes) (Templemichael College Longford) Longford Senior Management Team Award: Angel Nwagwu, Jodel Kalombo and Ruth Efe (Meán Scoil Mhuire Longford) Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council Cathaoirleach, Cllr Garry Murtagh said, "Our local students continue to set a high standard, excelling in their STEM studies and demonstrating remarkable talent and commitment. Each one has a bright future ahead. We extend our sincere thanks to everyone involved, particularly the teachers who support and guide their students every day." Deputy Chief Executive of Longford County Council John Brannigan said, "Now in its third year, the Tech Awards highlight the Council's strong commitment to supporting initiatives that benefit our communities. This programme showcases the great work undertaken by County Longford students who have created technology projects that have real-world relevance and application in County Longford." Longford County Council extend special thanks to Ballymahon Vocational School Principal Mick O'Rourke and Computer Science teachers Noel Neary and Owen Catterall; Meán Scoil Mhuire Principal Siobhán Cullen and Computer Science teacher Paddy McLoughlin; ...

Amber Cabrera. Senior Assistant to the City Manager for City of Fort Lauderdale, Florida and Maylee De Jesús, City Clerk for the City of Boynton Beach, Florida joined to podcast to discuss increasing representation in local government. They shared recent efforts they have worked on for Latinos in Florida Local Government, advice for the next generation, and how to get involved with the Local Government Hispanic Network. This episode was recorded at the 2025 ICMA Annual Conference in Tampa, FL. Host: Meredith Reynolds

Federated Farmers local government spokesperson Sandra Faulkner says the government's proposal to disestablish regional councils and bring all local governance into one organisation looks like a winner. As a former councillor at one of our only current unitary councils, Sandra says the clarity of purpose and efficiencies gained provide a blueprint for all regions.

Kia ora,Welcome to Thursday's Economy Watch where we follow the economic events and trends that affect Aotearoa/New Zealand.I'm David Chaston and this is the international edition from Interest.co.nz.And today we lead with news financial markets are absorbing some conflicting American data, and moving sideways today, with the USD easing.There were two services PMIs for the giant US economy out today. The ISM version edged up slightly for November, notable because it was expected to edge down. And the result is the best in nine months for this metric. The continued expansion in both business activity and new orders drove this outcome. Similarly, the S&P Global version for the US service sector reported an expansion although less than in October. Both surveys noted high embedded inflation however.US industrial production rose +0.1% in September from August, following a downwardly revised -0.3% drop in August. This means from a year ago, American industrial production is up +1.6%. Better than a decline but nothing like how the tariff-effects were sold. This activity was far better in the Obama years.But the ADP private sector payrolls report for November brought tough news. Businesses cut -32,000 jobs in November, following an upwardly revised +47,000 gain in October. Analysts were expecting this report to show a +10,000 rise based on ADP's weekly reporting. It is the biggest decline in payrolls since March 2023, led by a -120,000 drop at small businesses. We won't get the official non-farm payrolls report for November until December 17 (NZT), in its delayed restart.And the volume of mortgage applications in the US fell by -1.4% from the previous week in the last week of November to the lowest level in nearly three months. And that happened even though the key mortgage rates fell to a four week low.US vehicle sales were modest in November. They rose from October to 15.6 mln units but that is a long way down from the 16.7 mln in November 2024.Across the Pacific in China, their services sector continues to expand, driven by a sustained increase in new business, though the expansion slowed since October.China's local government debt continues to balloon as the lingering real estate slump has led to decreased income from property sales, pushing local government bond issuance for the year to a record high. The total owed by local governments and the local government financing vehicles that fund their projects now sits at a remarkable ¥134 tln (NZ$33 tln).In the EU, producer prices were little changed in October from September, but from a year ago they have dipped -0.2%. So no inflation pressures from this direction.In Australia, their economy grew less than expected in Q3-2025. Economic activity expanded +0.4% from the June quarter. Markets had expected a +0.7% expansion as it had in Q2-2025. Still, it was the 16th straight quarter of expansion. On a yearly basis, their GDP rose +2.1%, less than forecasts of +2.2% and after a +2.0% growth in Q2.The UST 10yr yield is now at 4.07%, down -3 bps from this time yesterday.The price of gold will start today at US$4218/oz, and up +US$32 from yesterday.American oil prices are +50 USc firmer at just over US$59/bbl, while the international Brent price is now at just under US$663/bbl.The Kiwi dollar is up +40 bps from yesterday, still at just under 57.7 USc. Against the Aussie though we are unchanged at just on 87.4 AUc. Against the euro we have also held at 49.4 euro cents. That all means our TWI-5 starts today at just under 62.1, and up +20 bps from yesterday.The bitcoin price starts today at US$92,535 and up +1.9% from this time yesterday. Volatility over the past 24 hours has been modest, at just on +/- 1.8%.You can get more news affecting the economy in New Zealand from interest.co.nz.Kia ora. I'm David Chaston. And we will do this again tomorrow.

A couple of advisors at the Christchurch City Council have ripped into the Government's plan for regional councils and have said to councillors that they reckon there's a better way. Or more correctly, two better potential ways. Instead of having local mayors run regional councils for two years and, during that time, work out how they're going to get by without a regional council. At a briefing meeting yesterday, two principal policy advisors put two options on the table for councillors to think about. Option 1: Amalgamate the Christchurch, Selwyn, and Waimakariri councils to create a new super city. Which I've been a fan of for quite some time now. And Option 2: Keep all three councils and have the city council take over ECAN's regional council functions. The reason these two council advisors have put these two options up for discussion is that they think having local mayors run ECAN for two years and work out a new structure for local government is a “weak” idea, which wouldn't do any favours for Christchurch ratepayers. And I get what they're saying, because as soon as you get three mayors around the table, they're just going to be interested in what's in it for them, aren't they? Which is the same approach these policy advisors are taking. They're on the city council pay roll and so they have to think about what's best for Christchurch city. And I like their idea of a supercity. But every time a supercity is mentioned, some people are quick to point to Auckland as an argument against it. The Auckland supercity brought together seven city and district councils and the regional council back in 2010. But a supercity in the greater Christchurch area would be nowhere near the same scale. We're talking here about just three councils: Christchurch, Selwyn and Waimakariri. We've done amalgamation before on a much smaller scale. Back in 2006, Banks Peninsula Council amalgamated with Christchurch city. The issue then was that Banks Peninsula didn't have a big enough population to get the rates it needed to operate properly. Selwyn and Waimakariri don't have that problem – they've grown massively since the earthquakes. Selwyn, especially. But half of the people living in Selwyn come into Christchurch every day for work and school, and they contribute nothing towards the cost of the running of the city. They're using the city's roads and so many of the other facilities that they pay nothing for. Add to that the relatively small distance between Selwyn, Christchurch and Waimakariri, and amalgamation is a no-brainer. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Regional, territorial, unitary, wards and boards. Local government in New Zealand is made up of 78 different councils that make decisions we encounter daily. The roads, air, rubbish, waters, environment – it's all local government. So, why has central government announced a need for change? And why has the Prime Minister himself implored councils to “stop doing dumb stuff”? Today on The Front Page, Victoria University of Wellington associate professor in politics, Lara Greaves, is with us to take us through what it all means, and what the future could hold for our local councils. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Herbert Simms was Dublin City's first Housing Architect, beginning his term in 1932. But how much of an impact did he make over his 16 year tenure? And can we still see his impact today? Eoin Ó Broin TD, Spokesperson on Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Sinn Féin; Author of Flats and Cottages

Regional councils have to find a different way of operating that cuts down on double ups and layers of bureaucracyRegional councillors who've just been sworn in have been shown the writing on the wall by the government, which is plotting a swift end to their termsGuests:Glenn McConnell - Stuff political reporterLearn More:Read Glenn's piece on the regional council shake up hereBeehive news release on local government changesFurther details from the Department of Internal Affairs Find The Detail on Newsroom or RNZ Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

There's an expectation a rates cap will prove challenging and require teaming up with central Government. The Government's proposing to stop rates increases at 4% a year, excluding water and other non-rates revenue. Councils wanting to go beyond this will need approval from a government-appointed regulator. Nelson Mayor Nick Smith told Mike Hosking he's not surprised councils have been targeted by the Government as it aims to reduce costs across the board. But he says delivery will require the Government to work with them to get costs down, especially in the construction sector. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An assurance a council rates cap will only target unnecessary costs, not community services or infrastructure. By 2029, councils wanting to increase rates by more than 4% will need approval from a government-appointed regulator. Water rates are excluded from the cap. Local Government Minister Simon Watts told Mike Hosking this will be an education process for councils. He says there's a lot of fat in the system and councils need to ensure cash has to be going into essential areas. Watts says he will work with the industry, not against them. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Monday the Government announced an annual 2-4% rates cap range will be fully implemented by 2029. The cap applies to all rates, including general rates, targeted rates and uniform annual charges, but excludes water charges and other non-rates revenue like fees and charges. Local Government Minister Simon Watts told Heather du Plessis-Allan, "it's going to be tough Heather, but guess what, it's been tough on everyone - households, businesses. "You think about those on fixed income, in particular, double-digit rate increases, some up to 20%. It's just simply not feasible, and that's what we've been hearing loud and clear from ratepayers" LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government has announced the details on its plan for rates caps - councils will be capped at 4%.They will not be able to raise their rates by more than 4%, and the plan will start being implemented in a couple of years' time, sort of mid 27, and then will be fully in place by mid 2029.There will be exemptions to the rate cap. The high growth councils will be exempt from the cap. Councils that experience a natural disaster, something like bad weather, a quake, whatever, they will be exempt. Councils that need to catch up on infrastructure underinvestment, which I thought would have been most councils, they will be exempt.They will have to apply. The exempt will not be automatic. They will have to apply for an exemption, but those are the grounds they can apply on, which I think sounds like potentially a lot of councils who will be able to get around the 4% cap.Now, on the politics of it, it is incredibly smart to announce this - it is incredibly popular. One poll found that about 75% of people want to see this happen, and I really want this to work.I really want this to force councils to sharpen their pencils and start cutting out the nice to haves like the disco toilets and the bus stops with the gardens spouting from the top. And I want them to be able to be going through their staff list and maybe discover like Wellington has in the last week, about 330 people who probably don't need to be paid for by the ratepayer.And this will definitely, I think, do that. It will force a bit of discipline.But what does worry me is that this isn't dealing with the actual problem that we've got in local government, which is that we have a bunch of numpties sitting around the council tables making bad financial decisions.After this, we will still have numpties sitting around the council table, and those numpties will still make bad financial decisions.And if there's one thing that we've learned from recent experience with Wellington City Council, it's that when numpties cut spending, They cut spending on important things like pipes and for some weird reason they keep on spending on the dumb stuff like disco toilets, and I worry that that will happen around the country and we will simply end up with another crisis like we're having at the moment of deferred maintenance.Having said that, It is obviously a much better situation if the numpties have less money to waste rather than more money to waste.So on balance, the rates cap is probably an improvement on the status quo, isn't it?Even if only for the certainty it gives the rest of us that our rates bill next year will not force us out of our homes.In that respect, this has got to be good news.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Local Government Minister is pleased to see councils joining forces under the new water infrastructure model. The Department of Internal Affairs expects councils to spend nearly 48-billion dollars on Local Water Done Well over the next decade. The reforms could create more than 40 water entities, with some councils joining multi-council-controlled organisations. Simon Watts told Mike Hosking that 38 councils have already combined to form 12 entities. But he says it's never been about the number of entities - the critical part is whether it's financially sustainable. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The news of Texas covered today includes:Our Lone Star story of the day: A new ruling in the case of the City of Kemaj abusing citizens from the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals will have far reaching consequences for Texas and local governments that abuse the rights of citizens. One key takeaway: The court “…asserted that a “taking” of property occurs at the time a government takes an action that makes the property unusable.”Read the full story by the great Holly Hansen here: Federal Appeals Court Ruling in Kemah Lawsuit Dismantles Hurdles for Citizens to Sue Local Governments.Our Lone Star story of the day is sponsored by Allied Compliance Services providing the best service in DOT, business and personal drug and alcohol testing since 1995.Dallas Fed: Texas manufacturing activity accelerates. Texas service sector activity retreats slightly and retail sales fall.More bad polling for Senator John Cornyn.TX23: Brandon Herrera raises $1 million in primary challenge to Tony Gonzales. Are there “Go Brandon!” signs in this primary race?Webb County judge denies violating federal election law.Listen on the radio, or station stream, at 5pm Central. Click for our radio and streaming affiliates.www.PrattonTexas.com

Ray White speaks to Xanthea Limberg, SALGA Deputy President, as the 2025 SALGA National Members Assembly enters a decisive phase in eThekwini. A central theme emerging from this week’s discussions is the urgent call to strengthen the financial foundations of municipalities, with leaders warning that without a sustainable and reformed funding model, meaningful improvements in service delivery will remain out of reach. Limberg unpacks the conversations taking place on the proposed review of the municipal funding framework, the challenges facing local government finances, and the steps SALGA believes are essential to stabilise and professionalise municipalities across the country. 702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 702, a Johannesburg based talk radio station. Bongani makes sense of the news, interviews the key newsmakers of the day, and holds those in power to account on your behalf. The team bring you all you need to know to start your day Thank you for listening to a podcast from 702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 06:00 and 09:00 (SA Time) to Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa broadcast on 702: https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/36edSLV or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/zEcM35T Subscribe to the 702 Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/v5mfetc 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/@radio702See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ray White speaks to former ward 102 councillor Lucinda Harman about the escalating intimidation and violence facing Johannesburg’s councillors, where serving the public is increasingly becoming a fight for personal safety. Harman describes a city where death threats, shootings, and high-profile resignations are becoming alarmingly common, with council meetings collapsing under factional battles, legal threats, and power plays that resemble a political battleground rather than a functional chamber. She delves into the rise of construction mafias, the breakdown of safety structures, and the emotional toll on those trying to govern amid chaos. Harman offers insight into what Johannesburg is facing now, what this means for the months ahead, and whether the city is slipping toward becoming ungovernable. 702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 702, a Johannesburg based talk radio station. Bongani makes sense of the news, interviews the key newsmakers of the day, and holds those in power to account on your behalf. The team bring you all you need to know to start your day Thank you for listening to a podcast from 702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 06:00 and 09:00 (SA Time) to Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa broadcast on 702: https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/36edSLV or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/zEcM35T Subscribe to the 702 Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/v5mfetc 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/@radio702See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The news of Texas covered today includes:Our Lone Star story of the day: The United States Supreme Court temporarily blocked the judicial panel's 2 to 1 decision against Texas' new Congressional maps. I'll explain the legal argument Texas made in its emergency appeal Friday. The high court required briefings from all parties to be in by today at 5pm.Also, why the new districts being used is so vitally important to the nation.Our Lone Star story of the day is sponsored by Allied Compliance Services providing the best service in DOT, business and personal drug and alcohol testing since 1995.Stench of Local Government stories:  Brown County Judge Shane Britton arrested on multiple alleged charges. Uvalde County Judge suspended by state commission after indictment. On the brighter side: Gordon has 75 students. Their girls basketball team just beat a school with 5,300.Listen on the radio, or station stream, at 5pm Central. Click for our radio and streaming affiliates.www.PrattonTexas.com

The government is planning a shake up of local governmenting, including replacing regional councils with Combined Territories Board; made up of mayors. The government says it will strip out duplication and drive down complexity and compliance costs. Chair of Local Government New Zealand's Regional Sector, Dr Deon Swiggs spoke to Lisa Owen.

In this episode, we sit down with former Drop host and current EMWD Director of Public Affairs, Amanda Fine. We discuss EMWD's communications playbook surrounding FOG (fats, oils, and grease) awareness, and how we work to reach customers before the clog!

Jono Naylor has been around all sides of the issue and joins Emile Donovan.

Newly elected regional councillors are in for a big change, with sweeping Government reforms. RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop recently unveiled plans to replace the country's 11 regional councils with boards consisting of local mayors. He suggests this will streamline decision-making, planning and infrastructure across regions. LGNZ Regional Sector Chair Deon Swiggs says the mandate for mayors is different, so they wouldn't have expected to be on a regional board. "There might be some mayors that go - great, yep, we want to get our hands on that regional council. There will be others who go - this is not my jam, I don't want to do that, what are you thinking?" LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Niles Township Supervisor Bonnie Kahn Ognisanti joins Marni and Richard to dive into the workings of a township and what services they provide. 

Majority in Parliament, during the post-budget debate today, posed a question that sparked a heated exchange between the leaders of both caucuses. The heated debate arose from a question by the Local Government Minister, Ahmed Ibrahim, who sought to know the whereabouts of the former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta

In the 200th episode of the FCCMA Podcast, host Steve Vancore is joined by Casey Cook, Executive Director of FCCMA and Chief of Legislative Affairs for the Florida League of Cities, for a timely and critical conversation about the future of local government in Florida. Casey outlines the growing legislative threats to property tax revenues, warning of a potential existential crisis for municipalities if core funding sources are undermined.Casey offers practical and actionable advice for local government leaders on how to push back against these threats by clearly communicating the value of city services. He stresses the importance of educating residents about the essential functions cities provide and the consequences of reducing local government funding. The episode delivers a candid update on the current policy landscape in Tallahassee. As FCCMA celebrates 200 episodes, Casey reminds listeners that the work of local government is not just essential, it is worth protecting, and it is time for leaders to stand together.

With a critical round of by-elections coming up next week, the African National Congress (ANC) has announced that all candidates for 2026 Local Government Elections will have to undergo criminal record and qualifications vetting, submit interest declarations, and consent to lifestyle audits. This is lauded by Elections Analyst Wayne Sussman on the latest edition of the Electoral Roadshow with Chris Steyn. Sussens gives in-depth previews of the most important upcoming by-elections, including the straight two-horse race between the Democratice Alliance (DA) and the ANC in City of Joburg Ward 90 where President Cyril Ramaphosa lives; the turbulence amid which MKP has to contest Mandeni where Umkhonto we Sizwe won over 70% of the vote in 2024 in the historic ANC stronghold; Kouga where the DA ward councillor walked over to the Patriotic Alliance; and Hantam where the local councillor was assassinated. As for the possible date of next year's Local Government elections, Sussman reveals that he is hearing from reliable sources that it will either be held on 4th or the 11th of November.

Culture-and-tourism investment companies emerge as a new financing channel for localities, but diverted funds and undistinctive projects leave many operating like LGFVs and facing the same financial pressures. Note: The conversation segment of this episode was generated using AI and has been edited for accuracy. It is based on this Caixin story: In Depth: Chinese Local Governments Risk Replicating Mistakes of LGFVs Subscribe now to unlock all coverage from Caixin Global and The Wall Street Journal for just $200 a year, enjoying a 66% discount.  Group discounts are available — contact us for a customized plan.

This episode of the Amazing Cities and Towns Podcast sponsored by Bearing Advisors, Jim Hunt interviews Phil Riley, Founding Member of Bearing  Advisors   ·       A candid conversation about the Prevent +  Protect program for local government workers.   7 Steps to an Amazing City:   Attitude Motivation Attention to Detail Zing Inclusiveness Neighborhood Empowerment Green Awareness Thanks for listening and look forward to having you join us for the next episode.   Links Mentions During Show:  https://www.nlc.org/post/2025/07/17/nlc-and-bearing-advisors-announce-launch-of-national-preventprotect-program/  ·       www.AmazingCities.org ·       www.AmazingCities.org/podcast to be a guest on the podcast   About Phil Riley of Bearing Advisors:   Phil Riley is the President and CEO of Bearing Advisors, a firm dedicated to connecting businesses with local government solutions. He is a strategic and innovative leader with over 40 years of experience with both Fortune 500 and privately held companies.   During his tenure as CEO of Utility Service Partners, his programs were among the first National League of Cities (NLC) Enterprise Partners, and he led the company to a prestigious Better Business Bureau ethics award.   Today, Phil is at the forefront of a groundbreaking collaboration between Bearing Advisors and the NLC: the national Prevent+Protect program. This initiative provides municipal employees, especially police, fire, and EMS workers, with confidential access to mental health and resiliency support, leveraging federal incentives to make these critical services accessible without increasing municipal budgets. Phil is passionate about supporting the well-being of local government employees and helping communities build healthier, more resilient futures. About Your Host, Jim Hunt: Welcome to the "Building Amazing Cities and Towns Podcast" … The podcast for Mayors, Council Members, Managers, Staff and anyone who is interested in building an Amazing City.   Your host is Jim Hunt, the author of "Bottom Line Green, How American Cities are Saving the Planet and Money Too" and his latest book, "The Amazing City - 7 Steps to Creating an Amazing City"   Jim is also the former President of the National League of Cities, 27 year Mayor, Council Member and 2006 Municipal Leader of the Year by American City and County Magazine.   Today, Jim speaks to 1000's of local government officials each year in the US and abroad.   Jim also consults with businesses that are bringing technology and innovation to local government.   Amazing City Resources:   Buy Jim's Popular Books: ·       The Entrepreneurial City: Building Smarter Governments through Entrepreneurial Thinking:   https://www.amazingcities.org/copy-of-the-amazing-city   ·       The Amazing City: 7 Steps to Creating an Amazing City:   https://www.amazingcities.org/product-page/the-amazing-city-7-steps-to-creating-an-amazing-city   ·       Bottom Line Green: How America's Cities and Saving the Planet (And Money Too)  https://www.amazingcities.org/product-page/bottom-line-green-how-america-s-cities-are-saving-the-planet-and-money-too   FREE White Paper: ·       "10 Steps to Revitalize Your Downtown"  www.AmazingCities.org/10-Steps   Hire Jim to Speak at Your Next Event: ·       Tell us about your event and see if dates are available at www.AmazingCities.org/Speaking   Hire Jim to Consult with Your City or Town: ·       Discover more details at https://www.amazingcities.org/consulting   Discuss Your Business Opportunity/Product to Help Amazing Cities: ·       Complete the form at https://www.amazingcities.org/business-development   A Special Thanks to Bearing Advisors for the support of this podcast:  www.BearingAdvisors.Net      

On Thursday, the government unveiled its new housing plan, promising a minimum of 300,000 new homes to be built by 2030.However, Sinn Féin has criticised the plan, with the party's housing spokesperson Eoin Ó Broin saying that it was written for “big developers to benefit their private interests” and that “families have once again been ignored”.Mr. Ó Broin and Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, John Cummins, spoke to Matt on The Last Word.Hit the ‘Play' button on this page to hear the conversation

We talk to Terri Gerstein about how workers are winning strong laws and protections at the state and local level. We talk to a teacher from the Minneapolis Federation of Educators about the strike they'll be going on next week.✦ ABOUT ✦The Valley Labor Report is the only union talk radio show in Alabama, elevating struggles for justice and fairness on the job, educating folks about how they can do the same, and bringing relevant news to workers in Alabama and beyond.Our single largest source of revenue *is our listeners* so your support really matters and helps us stay on the air!Make a one time donation or become a monthly donor on our website or patreon:TVLR.FMPatreon.com/thevalleylaborreportVisit our official website for more info on the show, membership, our sponsors, merch, and more: https://www.tvlr.fmFollow TVLR on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheValleyLab...Follow TVLR on Twitter: @LaborReportersFollow Jacob on Twitter: @JacobM_ALFollow TVLR Co-Creator David Story on Twitter: @RadiclUnionist✦ CONTACT US ✦Our phone number is 844-899-TVLR (8857), call or text us live on air, or leave us a voicemail and we might play it during the show!✦ OUR ADVERTISERS KEEP US ON THE AIR! ✦Support them if you can.The attorneys at MAPLES, TUCKER, AND JACOB fight for working people. Let them represent you in your workplace injury claim. Mtandj.com; (855) 617-9333The MACHINISTS UNION represents workers in several industries including healthcare, the defense industry, woodworking, and more. iamaw44.org (256) 286-3704 / organize@iamaw44.orgDo you need good union laborers on your construction site, or do you want a union construction job? Reach out to the IRONWORKERS LOCAL 477. Ironworkers477.org  256-383-3334 (Jeb Miles) / local477@bellsouth.netThe NORTH ALABAMA DSA is looking for folks to work for a better North Alabama, fighting for liberty and justice for all. Contact / Join: DSANorthAlabama@gmail.comIBEW LOCAL 136 is a group of over 900 electricians and electrical workers providing our area with the finest workforce in the construction industry. You belong here. ibew136.org Contact: (205) 833-0909IFPTE - We are engineers, scientists, nonprofit employees, technicians, lawyers, and many other professions who have joined together to have a greater voice in our careers. With over 80,000 members spread across the U.S. and Canada, we invite you and your colleagues to consider the benefits of engaging in collective bargaining. IFPTE.org Contact: (202) 239-4880THE HUNTSVILLE INDUSTRIAL WORKERS OF THE WORLD is a union open to any and all working people. Call or email them today to begin organizing your workplace - wherever it is. On the Web: https://hsviww.org/ Contact: (256) 651-6707 / organize@hsviww.orgENERGY ALABAMA is accelerating Alabama's transition to sustainable energy. We are a nonprofit membership-based organization that has advocated for clean energy in Alabama since 2014. Our work is based on three pillars: education, advocacy, and technical assistance. Energy Alabama on the Web: https://alcse.org/ Contact: (256) 812-1431 / dtait@energyalabama.orgThe Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union represents in a wide range of industries, including but not limited to retail, grocery stores, poultry processing, dairy processing, cereal processing, soda bottlers, bakeries, health care, hotels, manufacturing, public sector workers like crossing guards, sanitation, and highway workers, warehouses, building services,  and distribution. Learn more at RWDSU.infoThe American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) is the largest federal employee union proudly representing 700,000 federal and D.C. government workers nationwide and overseas. Learn more at AFGE.orgAre you looking for a better future, a career that can have you set for life, and to be a part of something that's bigger than yourself?   Consider a skilled trades apprenticeship with the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades. Learn more at IUPAT.orgUnionly is a union-focused company created specifically to support organized labor. We believe that providing online payments should be simple, safe, and secure.  Visit https://unionly.io/ to learn more.Hometown Action envisions inclusive, revitalized, and sustainable communities built through multiracial working class organizing and leadership development at the local and state level to create opportunities for all people to thrive. Learn more at hometownaction.orgMembers of IBEW have some of the best wages and benefits in North Alabama. Find out more and join their team at ibew558.org ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

====Sign up for the Ron & Don Newsletter to get more information at⁠⁠www.ronanddonradio.com⁠⁠ (http://www.ronanddonradio.com/)====To schedule a Ron & Don Sit Down to talk about your Real Estate journey, go to⁠⁠www.ronanddonsitdown.com⁠⁠ (http://www.ronanddonsitdown.com/) ====Thanks to everyone that has become an Individual Sponsor of the Ron & Don Show. If you'd like to learn more about how that works:Just click the link and enter your amount at⁠⁠https://glow.fm/ronanddonradio/⁠⁠⁠⁠RonandDonRadio.com⁠⁠ (https://anchor.fm/dashboard/episode/ea5ecu/metadata/RonandDonRadio.com)Episodes are free and drop on Monday's , Wednesday's & Thursday's and a bonus Real Estate Only episode on Fridays.From Seattle's own radio personalities, Ron Upshaw and Don O'Neill.Connect with us on Facebook⁠⁠Ron's Facebook Page⁠⁠ (https://www.facebook.com/ron.upshaw/)⁠⁠Don's Facebook Page⁠⁠ (https://www.facebook.com/theronanddonshow

In this episode of Good Morning Liberty, host Nate Thurston discusses the current housing affordability crisis and former President Trump's proposal for 50-year mortgages. Nate examines the complexities and potential downsides of longer mortgage terms, emphasizing that the root problem lies in the supply and demand imbalance in the housing market. He suggests that government regulations, state and local zoning laws, and various economic factors are contributing to the housing shortage. Nate also touches upon the role of institutional investors, immigration, and tariffs on building materials in exacerbating the crisis. The episode provides an in-depth analysis of these issues, advocating for policy changes to increase housing supply and affordability. 00:00 Intro 01:46 The 50-Year Mortgage Debate 02:41 Supply and Demand 06:29 Trump's 50-Year Mortgage Proposal 07:56 Personal Housing Experiences 11:36 Market-Driven Mortgage Solutions 15:19 Housing Affordability Crisis 17:58 Interest Rates and Mortgage Payments 30:28 Rental Companies and Housing Supply 33:48 Institutional Investors and Housing Affordability 34:44 Government Regulatory Failures and Housing Shortage 35:24 Personal Anecdotes and Neighborhood Issues 36:42 Investor Home Purchases and Market Share 38:40 State Legislation and Housing Shortage 41:04 Supply and Demand in the Housing Market 46:27 Local Government's Role in Housing Regulations 52:54 Impact of Immigration on Housing 55:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts    

Since 2000, Florida's population growth has been 116%. During that same time property tax revenue collection has risen by a staggering 370%. In other words, property taxes have risen at greater than 3x the rate of population growth!

Local government is meant to be the heartbeat of democracy. But as cities crumble, services collapse, and trust erodes, South Africans are asking: can our municipalities still be saved? In this episode of Democracy Unplugged, host Phumi Mashigo leads an honest discussion with a panel of political leaders tackling the state of local governance ahead of the 2026 municipal elections. From collapsing infrastructure to coalition chaos as well as lessons from the GNU, this episode asks what real local leadership should look like in 2026 and beyond. The Burning Platform

Jim Daniel, Public Health Leader for State and Local Government at Amazon Web Services, examines AI usage in public health. HIMSS Web Page: Innovative Approaches to Public Health: Generative AI as a Transformative Tool AWS Web Page: Transforming electronic case reports with generative AI: Unlocking faster public health responses AWS Web Page: Scalable intelligent document processing using Amazon Bedrock ASTHO Web Page: Innovation Advisory Council