The hottest Local government Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top U.S. Politics Topics

Why Transit In Oakland Sucks

The Discourse Lounge • 1443 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Transit Urban planning Local government Transportation Policy
  1. Oakland's public transit is underfunded and not very helpful, making many people rely on cars. Even in a dense area, it's hard for low-income families to give up their cars because transit options aren't reliable.
  2. Simply removing parking requirements won't fix Oakland's transit problems. There needs to be more focus on improving and funding public transport to reduce car dependency effectively.
  3. Oakland's city leaders haven't prioritized expanding transit, and as a result, the transit system is disorganized and ineffective. Without a solid plan for better transit, the city struggles to meet its climate goals.

A Law Could Give Noncitizens in NYC the Vote. Not All Immigrants Support It.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1057 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Voting Rights Immigration Legislation Public Opinion Local government
  1. There is a proposal in New York City to allow noncitizens to vote, which has sparked a lot of debate. Some people find the idea strange or wrong, while others think it's a matter of human rights.
  2. Not all immigrants agree with the idea of voting rights for noncitizens. This shows that the immigrant community has different opinions on political participation.
  3. The discussion around this law highlights a bigger conversation about who gets to vote in America and what that means for democracy. It raises questions about representation and rights.

‘This is becoming the biggest issue for councils’

NN Journal • 178 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education Funding Policy Local government
  1. There is a huge budget crisis for special needs education, with a national shortfall of £4 billion. This could lead to some councils going bankrupt if the situation doesn't improve.
  2. Many councils are facing growing deficits in their budgets because more children need special education services, but funding is not keeping up with demand.
  3. Families are struggling to get the education and support they need for their children, with long wait times for necessary plans and some choosing to educate their kids at home instead.

Berkeley's Evolution On Housing

The Discourse Lounge • 1557 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Housing policy Urban Development Local government Political trends
  1. Berkeley has shifted from being anti-housing to supporting more development. This change started with more people believing that building homes can help fix the housing crisis.
  2. The recent elections showed that urbanist candidates, who want to build more housing, are becoming popular. Voters are now more open to ideas like upzoning and building densely, which wasn't the case a decade ago.
  3. There's a new agreement among city leaders about the need for more housing, shifting away from anti-urban policies. This consensus is important because it allows the city to focus on other issues instead of constantly debating housing.

NYC’s Mayor Gets His Eyebrows Done

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 783 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Local government Political Leaders Public Policy News Coverage Social Issues
  1. Mayor Eric Adams got his eyebrows done to show off how much the Queens neighborhood has improved.
  2. A few months before, the area was overrun with crime and had a lot of illegal activities, making locals feel unsafe.
  3. His visit symbolized a fresh start for the community after efforts to clean it up and make it more civil.
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NIMBYs, NIMBYs, Everywhere...

Bet On It • 306 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Housing policy Public Policy Local government Regulation Political Debate
  1. NIMBYs, or 'Not In My BackYard' people, can greatly influence local construction rules. They often share small complaints that add up and make building new homes really difficult.
  2. Despite a lack of major anti-construction groups, local complaints still weigh heavily on housing availability. Many areas struggle to build new homes, making prices go up for everyone.
  3. Some suggest moving authority over housing regulations to regional or national levels, but there are worries that this could cause more issues or attract stronger NIMBY opposition.

A Rebuttal

Points And Figures • 666 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Law enforcement Political corruption Criminal Justice Investigative Journalism Local government
  1. Sheriff Dart should rethink the situation regarding Steve Fanady's treatment in jail. It seems unfair and has raised concerns about his rights.
  2. There are serious allegations against Dart, but his supporters deny them strongly. They believe he is being targeted by people who don’t like him.
  3. Chicago's media needs to dig deeper into corruption instead of just reporting on it later. Investigative journalism is important for the city's residents.

Berkeley’s Culture War : EE vs. FF

The Discourse Lounge • 493 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Local government Public Safety Transportation Policy Community Engagement
  1. Measure FF aims to improve road safety and conditions in Berkeley by funding street repairs and pedestrian enhancements. It is supported by most city leaders and focuses on creating safer streets for all users.
  2. Measure EE is backed by a coalition that opposes bike lanes and limits funding for road safety improvements. It proposes a lower tax but isn't as effective in maintaining pavement quality.
  3. The main conflict is between those wanting a more car-centric urban approach and those advocating for safer, multi-modal transportation. Voting for FF supports progressive road safety for a growing population.

The debt-laden Christchurch City Council NZ seems to have a spare $50K to splash out on a rainbow pedestrian crossing.

A B’Old Woman • 639 implied HN points • 20 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Local government Public Policy Civic engagement LGBTQ+ Issues
  1. Christchurch City Council is considering spending $50,000 on a rainbow pedestrian crossing despite being in significant debt. This is seen as controversial given their financial situation.
  2. Rainbow crossings may not comply with regular traffic safety laws, posing potential confusion for both pedestrians and drivers. Standard zebra crossings are designed for clear road safety.
  3. There is a suggestion that the council should allocate funds to more pressing social issues, like supporting women’s shelters, instead of spending on symbolic projects like a rainbow crossing.

The Housing Shortage by Metro Area, Part 3

Erdmann Housing Tracker • 189 implied HN points • 29 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Housing policy Urban Development Economic Trends Real Estate Local government
  1. Many cities have the ability to build more homes. This could help solve the housing shortage that many areas are facing right now.
  2. Some regions struggle with local rules that make it hard to build new homes, while others have been affected by tight mortgage lending practices.
  3. The Midwest has been particularly hit by the lack of new housing construction, even with growing demand, mainly due to mortgage issues from the last decade.

The Lost Stones of London

Londonist: Time Machine • 399 implied HN points • 08 May 24
💾 History Historical Events Archaeology Local government
  1. London's geography is linked to ancient stones like Oswald's Stone, which has been almost forgotten, highlighting the city's rich history.
  2. Historic stones in London served various purposes like marking boundaries or council meeting spots, adding unique character to the city's landscape.
  3. Despite being forgotten, remnants of ancient stones like London Stone and Wealdstone can still be found around London, connecting the modern city to its past.

To eradicate deaths on the road, Greater Manchester looks to Sweden

The Mill • 648 implied HN points • 22 Jan 24
📰 News Transportation Local government Community Entertainment Crime
  1. Greater Manchester aims to completely eliminate road deaths and serious injuries by 2040 using a Swedish road safety model
  2. The new strategy 'Vision Zero' focuses on changing attitudes towards road safety and preventing collisions
  3. Data shows the high cost and disparities of road casualties in Greater Manchester, with a goal of reducing them by 50% by 2030 and eradicating them by 2040

Who Is My Neighbor?

Investing 101 • 69 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Homelessness Local government Social Issues Faith
  1. People in some cities are against helping the homeless, especially when it comes to providing shelters during freezing temperatures. This fear and backlash show a real struggle between compassion and community concerns.
  2. It's important to remember that helping others, like the homeless, is a matter of humanity and kindness, not politics or religion. Loving your neighbor is crucial, regardless of beliefs.
  3. We should focus on doing good and helping others instead of just worrying about our safety or property values. Supporting organizations that help the homeless is one way to make a positive impact.

Friday brief: Flooded out residents question holiday park living

NN Journal • 695 implied HN points • 05 Jan 24
📰 News Floods Local government Crime Elections
  1. Residents living in a Northampton caravan park are questioning their decision after experiencing floods and evacuation.
  2. Northamptonshire's health services are facing financial challenges with overspending predicted for the year.
  3. Local political figures are taking a stance on government issues in their areas and are gearing up for upcoming elections.

Open letter to the Christchurch City Council NZ – available for anyone to sign who is a current, or potential, resident or visitor to Christchurch.

A B’Old Woman • 359 implied HN points • 22 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Rights Activism Local government Gender Issues
  1. The Christchurch City Council is being criticized for not including the word 'sex' in their new policy, which only mentions 'gender'.
  2. There are concerns about allowing men who identify as women to access women-only spaces like the pool's women's sessions.
  3. An open letter is available for current or prospective residents and visitors to Christchurch to support keeping female-only services and facilities.

Atrium Health is a unit of ‘local government’ like no other

The Charlotte Ledger • 275 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Local government Healthcare Government transparency
  1. Atrium Health enjoys the benefits of being a government entity but operates like a private corporation.
  2. The Atrium Health board meetings lack openness, with limited public access and closed committee meetings.
  3. Atrium's status as a government entity allows it to avoid taxes, receive antitrust immunity, and benefit from eminent domain powers.

The county’s billion pound battle

NN Journal • 377 implied HN points • 05 Dec 23
🌍 World Politics Government Local government
  1. The two unitary authorities are in a dispute over how to handle the billion pound debts from the former council.
  2. Audits for councils' accounts are delayed due to a lack of professionals, leading to national issues.
  3. The debt standoff impacts financial sustainability, and overspending in children's services is a major concern.

Friday brief exclusive: Fire chief candidate under investigation by police watchdog

NN Journal • 178 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
📰 News Investigation Local government Crime Elections Journalism
  1. The fire chief candidate is under investigation by the police watchdog for behavior during her time as deputy chief constable.
  2. North Northamptonshire Council is facing scrutiny for a planning fiasco involving a warehouse approval mix-up.
  3. A University of Northampton student has been sentenced to prison for the murder of another student during a drug dispute.

It's The Bugs all the way down

Worcester Sucks and I Love It • 275 implied HN points • 12 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Law enforcement Local government Media
  1. The movie Starship Troopers proves to be a subtle critique of society's hunger for violence, reflecting real-life America.
  2. The honor bestowed upon a police officer for killing a civilian raises questions about police responses and heroism.
  3. The failure of the Worcester City Council to address issues with the Ballpark Commission exposes potential conflicts of interest and lack of genuine concern for community benefits.

How to Get Policy Totally and Completely and Exasperatedly Wrong

Exasperated Infrastructures • 19 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy Legislation Local government Transportation Civic engagement Political Commentary
  1. New legislation in NYC about e-bikes may not solve the real problems of street safety and congestion. Instead of just registering bikes, the focus should be on redesigning streets for better safety for everyone.
  2. The support for this e-bike legislation from various politicians suggests a lack of understanding of the real issues. Many are using it as a way to appear proactive without actually addressing the deeper problems at play.
  3. There are big questions about how this new law will be enforced and funded. Without clear answers on who pays and who manages it, this policy may end up being ineffective and a waste of resources.

"It’s about policing people and policing people’s culture"

Worcester Sucks and I Love It • 98 implied HN points • 25 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Social Issues Law enforcement Local government Civil Rights
  1. The city administration faced criticism for making it hard to hold events like the Worcester Caribbean American Carnival.
  2. The Worcester Police Department came under scrutiny for a past officer-involved shooting and handling of a dog attack.
  3. The Quality of Life Team in Worcester appears to prioritize addressing 'blight' over helping the unhoused population.

Tune in tonight at 7.30pm NZT, to hear me talk about the 'mixed-sex' women's session at Linwood Pool, Christchurch.

A B’Old Woman • 119 implied HN points • 22 May 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender identity Public Policy Social Issues Local government Women's Rights
  1. There's a mixed-sex women's swimming session at Linwood Pool in Christchurch where men can join if they identify as women. It raises questions about women-only spaces.
  2. People in Invercargill recently gathered to protest against a similar policy allowing men in women's changing rooms. This shows that many are concerned about these changes.
  3. A livestream discussion is happening about these topics, highlighting different viewpoints on women's spaces and gender policies. It's a chance for people to share their thoughts and concerns.

"Does Detroit even need to tax homeowners?"

The Chargeback • 78 implied HN points • 08 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Taxation Local government Revenue
  1. Eliminating all property taxes would lead to significant revenue loss for the city and make land speculation easier.
  2. Eliminating only homeowner property taxes could hurt renters and lead to increased taxes for non-homestead properties.
  3. Eliminating the portion of property taxes controlled by the City of Detroit could benefit homeowners but also speculators, and may not be revenue neutral.

Interview With Theo Anthony by Tomi Faison

Do Not Research • 0 implied HN points • 15 Feb 22
🎨 Art & Illustration Filmmaking Creative Expression Community Engagement Local government
  1. Theo Anthony, the director of 'All Light Everywhere', emphasized the importance of connecting diverse sources in his filmmaking process and created a website to showcase these influences and inspirations.
  2. In his film, Theo Anthony intentionally included himself to challenge traditional documentary norms and encourage audience reflection on the artifice present in filmmaking.
  3. Theo Anthony's venture into local government as a City Council Member showcases the complexity of decision-making in mundane yet impactful issues, highlighting the intricate nature of political work.

Mini Exasperation #1 (Redux)

Exasperated Infrastructures • 0 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Infrastructure Transportation Public funding Local government Bipartisan Issues
  1. Weekly posts will include a short thought on a current topic, offering a quick reflection or reaction. This aims to engage readers with fresh ideas regularly.
  2. Recent federal grants announced for infrastructure projects are significant and aimed at improving local communities. Better communication about these projects will help the public understand how their money is used.
  3. Different views on funding public transit show there’s a conflict between wanting supportive services and cutting costs. It's important to focus on making transit accessible and sustainable for everyone.

Turn-out, tune-in, and roll-off in Fairfax County, VA

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 09 Nov 11
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voter Turnout Political Science Local government Voting behavior
  1. Voter turnout in off-year elections, like local elections, tends to be low. People usually show less interest in state and local races compared to presidential elections.
  2. Roll-off means that voters often skip lower-profile races on the ballot. Many people vote for the main position but leave other options blank, showing a lack of interest or awareness for local issues.
  3. Non-partisan elections can harm democracy. Without party labels next to candidates' names, it's harder for voters to make informed choices about local officials.