The Oklahoma Treasurer’s Office, led by Todd Russ, finds itself embroiled in legal controversy as allegations emerge of possible misconduct relating to the handling of documents tied to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investment practices. A recent lawsuit filed by FOIA Professional Services, LLC, raises serious questions about the office’s compliance with open-records laws and
Politics
Recent developments in New York City’s pension investment strategy have ushered in a significant pivot away from traditional fossil fuel investments. City Comptroller Brad Lander’s endorsement of excluding fossil fuel infrastructure from the city’s pension funds marks a critical transition in the landscape of public finance. This pioneering policy is set to position New York
The Chicago City Council has recently made headlines with its approval of a significant refinancing plan aimed at addressing the city’s substantial debt, totaling $1.5 billion. This decision, which follows a postponement at the council’s previous meeting, has sparked both hope and criticism regarding the future financial management of the city. On Tuesday, the council
The Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board (MSRB) recently marked a significant occasion with its first quarterly board meeting of fiscal year 2025. Held on October 23-24, this meeting not only introduced new leadership under Chair Warren “Bo” Daniels but also set a tone for the regulatory environment ahead. A particular focus was the request for information
In a bold move aimed at addressing chronic congestion in Charlotte, North Carolina, the state has embarked on its largest transportation initiative to date. This ambitious project, primarily focused on expanding an 11-mile stretch of Interstate 77, has gained traction through a public-private partnership (P3) structure, following crucial endorsements from local governing bodies. The endeavor
The Financial Data Transparency Act (FDTA) of 2022 has emerged as a point of contention within the municipal securities market. As the deadline for public comment approached on October 21, participants across the spectrum—including issuers from local governments to regulatory bodies—voiced their apprehensions regarding the law’s implications. Primarily, critics argue that the FDTA represents an
The recent investor conference held in Houston, hosted by Controller Chris Hollins, has been mired in controversy following allegations raised by Mayor John Whitmire regarding improper corporate sponsorship practices. This tension reflects deeper political divides and concerns about transparency in government fundraising initiatives, highlighting the complexities of funding municipal events while maintaining ethical standards. Mayor
In recent years, natural disasters have wreaked havoc on Houston’s financial landscape, creating a daunting fiscal environment for the nation’s fourth-largest city. The recent storms, including a derecho windstorm in May followed by Hurricane Beryl in July, have exacerbated existing budgetary challenges. These storms left behind significant debris, necessitating extensive cleanup efforts that have placed
As cities across the United States emerge from a period of relative ease, characterized by the influx of funds through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), they now face a sobering reality—the fiscal landscape is shifting. The once-reliable federal support is fading, and municipalities find themselves in a precarious position, balancing existing reserves while contemplating
The recent conflict between Houston Mayor John Whitmire and City Controller Chris Hollins has shed light on issues of governance, ethics, and accountability in municipal finance. The controversy erupted as Whitmire accused Hollins of potentially compromising city integrity by soliciting sponsorships from municipal bond firms for an investor conference. The mayor voiced concerns that such