Do metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs) fairly represent the populations they serve? A study released this month by the Brookings Institution examines whether the interests of the general population are represented by MPOs, whose members are usually appointed rather than elected, in 50 large metro areas across the country.
Month: January 2006
U.S. Counties Face Growing Methamphetamine Epidemic
America is slowly becoming acquainted with a new health care crisis: Methamphetamine abuse. The National Association of Counties has released a report on two nationwide surveys of counties, with methamphetamines being reported as an “epidemic†and the top drug issue county health care officials and law enforcement is confronting.
New York City Death Rate Reaches New Low
New York City’s death rate was the lowest ever in 2004, according to its recently released annual Summary of Vital Statistics. The lower death rate is due to a drop in cardiac-related deaths, attributed to an improved quality of health care.
Webcast on Housing and Transportation Affordability Index Set for January 19
Knowledgeplex and the Brookings Institution will host a webcast on the Housing and Transportation Affordability Index on January 19; this new measure includes transportation costs in determining true affordability for housing.
Motor City Gets Ready for Super Bowl; Racing Legend Penske Rallies Volunteers
Detroit, Michigan prepares for Super Bowl XL, 24 years since its previous opportunity to host football’s biggest game. City and business leaders are working hard to change 40 years of bad PR and get momentum behind urban renewal efforts.
Property Tax Stability Could Be at Risk if Housing Market Fizzles
A continued slowdown in the housing market could have a negative effect on the property tax base in communities around the country – particularly along the East and West Coasts.
Municipal Bond Market Breaks $400 Billion Mark in 2005
The municipal bond market had a strong year in 2005, spurred on by low long term interest rates. The year was particularly favorable for the state of California, which took advantage of low long term yields and represented half of all bond issues.