Public Money Pod

Perspectives on City of LA's digital insfrastructure with Ted Ross

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0500

This week we talk to Ted Ross, Chief Information Officer (CIO) for the City of Los Angeles about it's approach to digital infrastructure, particularly the adoption of AI and how it's transforming the workplace and service delivery.

Financing the Data Center Boom

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0500

This week we talk about a very pertinent topic: How will the local electric grid accommodate the data center boom? When power grids tend to operate on close to maximum capacity, even a modest increase in demand demands significant investment. Where will those investments come from, and where will they go?

Digital Asset backed debt in the Public Sphere with Les Borsai & James Key-Wallace

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500

In this week's episode we discuss bitcoin backed municipal debt issuance in New Hampshire with Les Borsai & James Key-Wallace. There has been a wave of states embracing digital currency in debt issuance with legislation introduced in 32 states as of now. We discuss the mechanics, the partnership with the state and private firms, and the potential landscape going foeward.

Building Highways with Erick Guerra

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500

Welcome back to the Public Money Pod, the first episode for 2026. In this episode we interview Professor Erick Guerra from the University of Pennsylvania. We discuss the transportation infrastructure which involves building, maintaining, and rebuilding an ever expanding road and highway network that has to be financed.

Property Tax Apprisals with Mike Twitty

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In the episode before thanksgiving we interview Mike Twitty, Pinellas County Property Appraiser. We talk about the different technological tools that have been employed in the Pinellas County to make the property tax process much more transparent, especially for new home owners. We also discuss the sentiment of lawmakers in Florida to property taxes and possible future outcomes.

Being an IG in the current climate with Mark Greenblatt

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In episode 11 we continue with the IG series with the former inspector general of the Department of Interior and the Chair of the Counsel of the Inspectors General Mark Greenblatt. We dive into topics such as the differences in IG's at local an d state level and IG's in federal positions and the evolution of IG's role in government as well.

The state of state procurement with Solomon Kingston

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode we discuss public procurement system current and how AI affects these essential public services with Solomon Kingston. Solomon is the Interim Chief Cooperative Procurement Officer of NASPO, a non-profit dedicated to helping state governments improve their public procurement practices nationwide.

Government accountability with Inspector General Deborah Witzburg

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In the ninth episode of the Public Money Pod, we talk to the Inspector General for the City of Chicago, Deborah Witzburg about keeping public agencies accountable to the tax payers. Previously, she served as the City’s Deputy Inspector General for Public Safety, overseeing independent, objective evaluations and reviews of Chicago’s police and police accountability agencies, and also served as OIG’s chief investigator for the Public Safety section, leading efforts to screen and review closed police disciplinary cases, as well as OIG’s Associate General Counsel for Public Safety

Implications of the Arizona school vouchers with Ricky Hernandez

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 07:15:00 -0500

Ricky Hernandez is the Chief Financial Officer for the Tucson Unified School District and In this episode we look at ESSER funding as well as ESAs or "Empowerment Scholarship Accounts". We examine the implications of the school vouchers, which came about after the pandemic, on city budgets.

Property Taxes with Christopher Berry

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In our latest episode we discuss property taxes with Professor Christopher Berry from Harris School of Public Policy at the University of Chicago. The differences between the levy and rate systems and how data analytics can be used to improve accuracy in property valuations.

FAIR Plans with Jordan Haedtler

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0500

This week Jordan Haedtler discusses FIAR plans as an insurance tool against events caused by the climate crisis. We examine how FAIR plans are used in different states over the years and how new legislation may affect them. Recommendations from the report "Insurers of Last Resort: Why Today's FAIR Plans Need a Redesign to Address the Home Insurance Crisis." show how FAIR plans can be better regulated to keep up with the changing scope of how they may be used.

Role of AI in Muni Bonds with Tom Kozlik

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 07:15:00 -0500

In episode 5 of PMP we interview Tom Kozlik, Head of Public Policy and Municipal Strategy at Hilltop Securities where we discuss the results of the Public Finance Leaders' Survey and the consequences of AI on Muni Bonds - from yields to infrastructure.

Municipal Market Trends with Andrew Kim

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 06:10:00 -0500

In episode 4 our guest is Andrew Kim who is a Director at PTMA Financial. We discuss financing state and local debt through bond issuance, delve deeper in to negotiated and competitive sales, and underappreciated and overemphasized credit risks by rating agencies. We also discuss financial challenges local governments would face in the coming decade.

Rethinking budgeting - budgeting and planning using the "Readiness Assessment"

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In episode 3 of Public Money Pod, we interview Mark McAvoy, city administrator of Liberty Lake, Washington. A young city but old problems persist. In the interview we discuss how Liberty Lake is using the "Readiness Assessment" tool to approach its budgeting and planning as it approaches its first major infrastructure replacement cycle. The episode also explores the using surveys to get feedback from constituents in the quality of services provided by Liberty Lake.

Cyber Risk in State and Local goverments with David Erdman

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In our second episode of season 4, we're in DC for the at the GFOA conference. We discuss topics in cyber risk in state and local governments and effects on the muni bond market. We are here with our guest David Erdman, who is managing director of Baker Tilly Municipal Advisors, LLC and been on the public finance industry for more than three decades. David is an active advocate and leader for municipalities in the municipal bond market and was a past member of the GFOA's Committee on Governmental Debt Management,

Rethinking Budgeting - Getting Everyone on the Bus for Budget Reform

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In our season 4 premier, we're in DC for the at the GFOA conference. In this episode we discuss challenges and opportunities around performance budgeting, cost allocation, getting buy-in for some of the challenging issues. Joined by panelists Laura Larsen who became Baltimore’s Budget Director in September 2022 leading a fifteen-member team responsible for developing and implementing Baltimore’s $3.3 billion operating budget and currently serving on the Budget Committee for the Government Finance Officers Association. Michael Mastrobuoni, the current Budget Director for the City of Somerville, Massachusetts responsible or managing the city's annual operating budget and works. Karen Rhodes-Whitley director of budget & research, City of Plano, Texas leading the City of Plano's $1.2 billion operating and capital budget and serves as chair of GFOA's Committee on Retirement and Benefits Administration. And Richard Greene, principal of Barrett and Greene, Inc. who was also the moderator of the panel.

Economic Mobility in the Bay State, with Massachusetts Treasurer Deborah Goldberg

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In our Season 3 finale, we're speaking with Massachusetts Treasurer Deborah Goldberg. We asked Treasurer Goldberg about some of her state's programs to address economic mobility, including the Office of Economic Empowerment, which Treasurer Goldberg founded. We also talked about how financial education is being taught statewide, how the current interest rate environment affects her approach to investing and reserve funds, and of course, we hear about some of the Treasurer's best unclaimed property stories, including one involving a Red Sox legend! In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss a story about efforts in Jackson, Mich. to replace lead pipes, and how states and localities around the country are funding programs like these.

Insurance Markets, Housing Policy, and the Role of Climate Risk, with Ben Keys

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0500

This week, we're joined by Ben Keys, Professor of Real Estate and Finance at the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania (and former faculty at the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy). We spoke with Ben about a wide variety of issues surrounding the intersection of housing policy, insurance markets, and climate change, including how volatile weather is changing insurer behavior, the role of reinsurance, and what current and future federal policy might mean for state and local markets. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss a pair of stories investigating areas with too-low home insurance prices and how that is leading some insurers to leave markets where the risk of climate-related home damage is particularly acute.

Navigating Muni Market Volatility, with Jennifer Johnston

Mon, 26 May 2025 05:00:00 -0500

This week, we welcome back Jennifer Johnston, Senior Vice President and Director of Municipal Bond Research at Franklin Templeton. We wanted to get a sense for the causes and conditions behind municipal market volatility, including what affects issuer and investor behavior on both the retail and institutional sides of the market. We also talk about how today's volatility compares historically with times such as the Great Recession and Covid, the role of technology in servicing funds, and what makes the muni market unique in Jennifer's home state of California. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss how current tax reform is sitting with investors and issuers, and how public finance professionals decide when to go to market.

Tariffs and Their Impact on Municipal Finance, with David Dubrow

Mon, 19 May 2025 05:00:00 -0500

This week, we're joined by David Dubrow, Partner at ArentFox Schiff. With the uncertainty surrounding tariffs in recent weeks, how should issuers prepare for contingencies, and what effects might we expect on prices, trade, and economic growth? David talks to us about all of this and more, including how mutual funds have been impacted, as well as stagflation and which sectors of the muni market are especially vulnerable to this phenomenon. In Ripped from the Headlines, we break down the US trade deficit and why forecasting for imports has become particularly tricky.

Translating Financial Empowerment to City Fiscal Health, with Angela Rollins

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0500

This week, we're speaking with Angela Rollins, Director of Financial Empowerment for the City of Rochester, NY. As someone who is working at the intersection of personal finance and public finance, we wanted to ask Angela about how individual-focused financial empowerment programs help both resident economic mobility as well as the overall financial health of the city. We learn about some of the programs in place to help residents attain financial freedom such as the Summer of Opportunity Program and Kiva loans for small businesses, among others. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss a study that surveyed how different generations are feeling about their financial outlooks and levels of financial anxiety.

(Mis)Understanding Climate Risk and Financial Risk, with Spencer Glendon

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Climate change is a reality of our world, but are we thinking effectively about addressing our challenges? To find out, we sat down with Spencer Glendon, Founder of Probable Futures. We asked Spencer to tell us about what we often get wrong when thinking about climate adaptation, mitigating financial risk tied to high-risk weather events, and what kinds of public infrastructure investments we should expect to see in the future. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss an article that surveyed Americans about their perceptions and anxiety levels surrounding climate change.

Probable Futures is a non-profit climate literacy initiative that makes climate science accessible and understandable so that everyone, everywhere can think about climate change in practical ways and prepare for what's to come. The goal is for climate considerations to become an integral part of the decisions people make every day—at home, at work, and in their communities. You can read Spencer Glendon's seasonal essays here and can check out the maps that show local climate change impacts here.

To learn more about MMA's "Climate Risk and Municipal Finance" course that we mentioned in today's episode, click here.

Climate Risk Assessment in the Muni Market, with Larry Lawrence and Phoebe Devries

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0500

When severe weather moves in, having accurate, real-time data is crucial. This extends to the muni market, where up-to-date analytics can help localities understand the exposure risks of their assets to extreme weather events. We sat down this week with Larry Lawrence, Head of ICE Climate, and Phoebe Devries, Senior Manager at ICE Climate, to better understand the methodology and technology behind monitoring and predicting the impact of severe weather on municipals, and how this helps localities conduct better risk management. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss a recent newsletter from our very own Liz Farmer (Long Story Short) that talks about the importance of communication in building trust in local government public finance.

Building Resilience in Local Government, with David Schmiedicke and William Jones

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0500

On this week's episode, we're live at the ICMA conference in Milwaukee, Wis., where we spoke to David Schmiedicke, Finance Director for the City of Madison, Wis.; and William Jones, City Administrator of Mequon, Wis. With a conference focus on reimagining local government, we wanted to get Dave and Will's thoughts on financial resilience, building community trust, what the future looks like for local governments, and so much more.

Sewer Memes (Really!) and Communicating Effectively about Public Utilities, with John Gonzalez

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0500

What do James Earl Jones and free verse poetry have to do with a sewer district in Ohio? Sewage and stormwater fans might know we're talking about the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District (NEORSD). Their social media pages feature some next-level public utility memes, but perhaps there's a deeper purpose here? Join us as we talk to John Gonzalez, Senior Manager of Communications at NEORSD, about the importance of effective communication by public utility providers and the ways in which his team has connected with local communities.

The Local Power of Education Finance, with Marguerite Roza

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this week's episode, we're talking to Dr. Marguerite Roza, Professor and Director of the Edunomics Lab at Georgetown University's McCourt School of Public Policy. We asked Dr. Roza to help distill the complex state-level funding formulas that determine where and how education dollars are directed, and the highly localized decisions that school districts make in spending the funds they receive. We also talked about post-pandemic trends in education, including an imbalance in staffing and enrollment, challenges to improving reading instruction, and the role of the federal government in education finance. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss a school funding formula change in New Mexico and shed some light on why these formula changes are so rare.

Keeping Public Servants in Public Service, with Caitlin Lewis

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0500

This week, we spoke with Caitlin Lewis, Executive Director of Work for America. Amid large-scale reductions in the federal workforce, we asked about what state and local governments are doing to attract these talented public servants, and how programs like Civic Match are helping these workers find new positions. We also discuss the true extent of the federal workforce across all facets of life, and what is lost when we privatize the public sector. In Ripped from the Headlines, we talk about how cuts to the federal workforce have impacted the local financial outlook of the District of Columbia.

Government Efficiency at the State and Local Level, with Eric Schnurer

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Government efficiency is a trendy topic these days, but Eric Schnurer, president of Public Works LLC, has dedicated his career to it. We wanted to speak to an expert on what it looks like to assess state and local government performance and spending. He shares examples of his approach and makes the case for why it's worth investing the time in speaking directly to employees, and how that leads to better short- and long-term government performance. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss a story looking at government efficiency efforts being led in statehouses across the country.

The Playbook for Thriving Transit, with Kevin Willens

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500

It's no secret that the pandemic changed our commuting patterns and how we use transit. How have transit systems found success in re-gaining ridership and financing capital improvement projects? We sat down with MTA CFO Kevin Willens, who talked to us about how the MTA has navigated a wide array of strategies, including mitigating fare and toll evasion and balancing its budget through 2026. We also asked about congestion pricing and what the early data can tell us about its potential to be rolled out elsewhere. In Ripped from the Headlines, we take a look at transit in Chicago and a proposal by the CTA to combine Chicagoland's three transit providers into one entity.

Emergency Episode: Making Sense of the Federal Funding Freeze

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 07:30:00 -0500

On the heels of a dizzying week in which the White House ordered—then rescinded—a freeze on federal funds, we wanted to discuss what this all could mean for state and local governments. To help us make sense of it all, we're thrilled to welcome Carolyn Bourdeaux, former U.S. Representative from Georgia's 7th district and Senior Visiting Scholar at the University of Georgia School of Public & International Affairs; Lisa Washburn, Chief Credit Officer and Managing Director at Municipal Market Analytics; and Noah Winn-Ritzenberg, Senior Director of Public Finance at the Volcker Alliance.

The Role of Place in Building Community, with Bill Fulton (100th episode!)

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500

We kick off our 100th episode with some Public Money Pod trivia! Then, we speak to Bill Fulton, Founder of the William Fulton Group. With an extensive background in urban planning and economic development, Bill talks to us about connecting fiscal policy and urban planning, the role of "place" in promoting community development, and rethinking how we utilize real estate in a post-pandemic world. We also talk to Bill about the potential fiscal and policy impacts of the Los Angeles wildfires. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss the connection between natural disasters and the affordable housing crisis, and what potential solutions exist to mitigate these issues in the future.

Strengthening Local Government Finance, with Joshua Franzel

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500

This week, we welcome back to the pod Joshua Franzel, Senior Executive and Director of Research & Data Analysis at the National League of Cities (NLC), as well as one of our first ever guests from Season 1. We talk about NLC's recent centennial tour, which wrapped in November 2024 after touring 130 cities across the country. We also discuss the NLC's City Fiscal Conditions Report, along with how NLC works to improve communications and foster civil discourse between elected officials and their residents. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss the implications of a new law in Arizona that forbids cities from charging taxes on rent.

The NLC's City Fiscal Conditions Report for 2024 is available here: https://www.nlc.org/resource/city-fiscal-conditions-2024

Building Community Wealth in Mid-Sized Cities, with Hartford Mayor Arunan Arulampalam

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500

We're joined this week by Hartford, Connecticut Mayor Arunan Arulampalam. We spoke with Mayor Arulampalam about the challenges Hartford faces as a mid-sized city that serves a much larger metro area, along with growing Hartford's tax base and funding public health and violence prevention programs. We also asked the mayor about the post-Covid challenge of utilizing downtown commercial real estate, including the complexities of converting office spaces for residential and other uses. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss the city of Missoula, Montana, and the challenges the city faces in addressing rising homelessness.

Bonus Episode: From the Season 3 Cutting Room Floor

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Happy New Year, Public Money Pod listeners! We've got a special bonus episode to kick off 2025, where we're sharing never-before-aired clips from some of our Season 3 interviews. You'll hear excerpts from our conversations with:

Dr. Angie Flick (Director of Finance, City and Borough of Juneau, Alaska)
Abhi Nemani (Senior Vice President of Product Strategy, Euna Solutions)
Casey Lozar (Vice President, Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis and Director of the Center for Indian Country Development)
Vijay Kapoor (Chief of Staff to the Receiver for the City of Chester, Pennsylvania)
Joel Black (Chair, Governmental Accounting Standards Board)
Mayor Christina Muryn (Findlay, Ohio)

Sales Tax Policy at the State and Local Level, with Whitney Afonso

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500

In this week's episode, we speak to Dr. Whitney Afonso, Professor of Public Administration and Government at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Government. We discuss state and local sales tax policy and issues and considerations surrounding the creation of such policy, including understanding the tax base, exporting tax burden and sales tax leakage, "cross-border" shopping, and the economic incidence and revenue generation of expanding the tax base. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss a local measure in Napa, California proposing to raise the city's sales tax, and how municipalities can deal with "tax fatigue" on ballot measures.

Federal Tax Policy in 2025, with Tom Kozlik

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500

We're joined this week by Tom Kozlik, Head of Public Policy & Municipal Strategy at Hilltop Securities. He helps us unpack what kinds of tax reform and policies we might expect to see in the incoming Trump administration, including the renewal of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and the future of the state and local tax (SALT) deduction and the municipal bond tax exemption. He also talks to us about the implications of one-party control in the next administration and the end of the Golden Age of Public Finance. In Ripped from the Headlines, we dive deeper into the upcoming landscape for federal spending, and what that means as governors and mayors navigate these changes.

Outcome Budgeting and the post-ARPA Landscape, with Andrew Kleine

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500

This week, we spoke to Andrew Kleine, Managing Director of Government and Public Sector at Ernst & Young. He told us about his work with outcome-based budgeting and how local governments can use this process to prioritize programs and outcomes that are more responsive to the needs of their communities. We also discussed the upcoming post-ARPA fiscal landscape and how cities can prepare for a transition away from pandemic-era funding. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss the end of the Federal Emergency Rental Assistance Program in Oklahoma and the effects that is expected to have on local residents.

Fiscal Distress in Local Government, with Vijay Kapoor

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500

We're joined this week by Vijay Kapoor, Chief of Staff to the Receiver for the City of Chester, Pennsylvania. He talked to us about his background working with municipalities facing fiscal distress, and how his staff is taking a comprehensive approach to receivership in Chester, especially with their efforts to monetize the Chester Water Authority while still keeping it in the hands of the public. In Ripped from the Headlines, we delve into a piece from our very own Liz Farmer (Long Story Short), where we discuss the pros and cons of privatizing a water utility, including the role of Fair Market Value (FMV) legislation.

Continuous Improvement in City Government, with Mayor Christina Muryn

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500

This week, we talk to Findlay, Ohio Mayor Christina Muryn, who has established herself as a "continuous improvement mayor" through the time, effort, and capital she has dedicated to improving operations. We wanted to get some insight into what has been successful for her city, and why a mid-sized city such as Findlay is a great place to implement and make adjustments to a continuous improvement strategy. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss a recently signed Capital Infrastructure Plan in Los Angeles which will overhaul how city departments plan and deliver infrastructure projects as the city prepares to host both the World Cup and the Olympics.

Emergency Management and Local Resiliency, with Steve Hagerty

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0500

In the past month, the southeastern United States has been hit by two highly destructive storms: Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton. This week, we sat down with a true expert in emergency management, Steve Hagerty, Founder and President of Hagerty Consulting, to tell us about the role of public finance in disaster preparedness and emergency management in the aftermath of disasters. With significant experience in disaster response stretching back to the immediate aftermath of 9/11, Steve tells us about the many different programs and funds that state and local governments can (and should) utilize to prepare for and respond to disasters, and how these programs - along with strong emergency management and effective relationship-building - all lead to greater community resiliency in the wake of these events. In Ripped from the Headlines, we take a closer look at zoning, building codes, and policy strategy in Florida which, despite high climate risks, still experiences some of the fastest population growth in the United States.

Financial Leadership in the Last Frontier, with Angie Flick

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Few localities in the United States must consider glacial outburst flooding when strategizing about natural hazard mitigation, and fewer still have no roads into or out of their city. But such distinct features are a part of the everyday public finance landscape for our first-ever guest from the Last Frontier, Dr. Angie Flick, Director of Finance for the City and Borough of Juneau, Alaska. She joins us this week to discuss the unique characteristics of public finance in Juneau, natural disaster response coordination among federal agencies and private citizens alike, cruise ship tourism, and more. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss the steps Juneau has taken toward flood prevention on the heels of record flooding, and the challenging positions local governments are often placed in when it comes to mitigating natural disasters and financing climate adaptation.

Strategic Planning in Local Government, with Abhi Nemani

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0500

This week, we talk to Abhi Nemani, Senior Vice President of Product Strategy at Euna Solutions. He tells us about the role technology can play in helping local governments better connect their priorities to the budgeting process, addressing human capital challenges in the public sector, and how the private sector can help scale innovation in local government. In Ripped from the Headlines, we turn to Sarasota County, Fla. as a case study for how local governments can leverage tax incentives, rebates, and grant programs to bolster their climate change mitigation efforts and meet their long-term climate goals.

Public Finance among Tribal Nations, with Casey Lozar

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0500

This week, we're joined by Casey Lozar, Vice President at the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis and Director of the Center for Indian Country Development. He tells us about the policy work he has done to ensure that Tribal Nations are not overlooked in public finance, and how the Survey of Native Nations addresses some of the challenges inherent in meaningful data collection. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss the impact of recent federal funding to address energy needs among Tribal Nations.

Redesigning the Work Week, with Scott Vargo

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0500

We've heard before about rethinking the 40-hour work week, but what effects could a redesigned work week have on productivity, morale, and public safety? Join us this week in our conversation with Scott Vargo, City Manager of Golden, Colorado, as he tells us about how his city piloted a compressed work week for its police department and the outcomes they observed. In Ripped from the Headlines, we look at how the Manatee County (Florida) Sheriff's Office addressed a sharp staffing shortage by auditing their departmental employee evaluation and engagement practices.

Targeted Improvement in Financial Reporting, with Joel Black

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0500

This week we're joined by Joel Black, chair of the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB). He talks to us about the GASB and the important work it does for state and local governments. We also discuss recent research at the GASB, areas for improvement in financial reporting, and what we can expect from the GASB in the future. In Ripped from the Headlines, we examine why a high percentage of large government IT projects aren't successfully implemented, and the landscape of "intangible assets" in modern government.

Muni Finance meets the Blockchain, with Eric Mason

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Local government may not be synonymous with "blockchain technology," but our guest this week, Eric Mason, CFO of Quincy, Mass., shows us just how useful Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) can be for local municipal finance. He shares with us the benefits he has seen in his city from this technology, and why this proactive government innovation has fostered greater efficiency and equity, allowing people to invest in their own community. In Ripped from the Headlines, we look at some more examples of how state and local governments have used blockchain technology to build trust and create more positive experiences for their constituents.

Thinking Strategically about Energy Savings, with Victoria Yarbrough

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0500

We're joined this week by Victoria Yarbrough, who serves as Assistant City Manager for Sierra Vista, AZ. She talks to us about how her city has leveraged tax credits from the Inflation Reduction Act to invest in economic development, including capitalizing on Sierra Vista's unique "high desert" climate to nurture a thriving sports tourism industry. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss a piece that explains why equity evaluation is key to new municipal clean energy programs.

Public Money in the Beehive State, with Utah Treasurer Marlo Oaks

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0500

In the latest installment of our state treasurer series, we speak with Utah Treasurer Marlo Oaks. He talks to us about why he made the jump from investment banker to the state treasurer's office, financial education programs for Utah students, and of course, some fascinating unclaimed property stories! In Ripped from the Headlines, we break down a story about the Climate Revolution Action Network in New Jersey protesting ties between the state's public pension fund and the fossil fuel industry.

Measuring Municipal Climate Risk, with Steve Bullock

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0500

By the 2050s, one in five U.S. counties will face compound material exposure to two or more acute climate hazards such as drought, extreme heat, wildfires, and flooding. This week, we're joined by Steve Bullock, who leads the Research and Methodology Team at S&P Global Sustainable1. He helps us break down the data and analytics being used to provide better transparency and help investors integrate climate risk into their decision-making, along with ensuring state and local governments are prepared to handle climate hazards. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss new rules at FEMA, including how the agency now defines a floodplain, and how this impacts the decision of where to rebuild after a flood.

BONUS EPISODE: Deep dives with Jon Mondillo

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0500

We weren't able to fit everything from our conversation with Jon Mondillo (abrdn) into one episode, but we still wanted to share the rest of it! Enjoy this bonus episode, where Jon talks to us about affordable housing, charter schools, and trends in hospital systems and Continuing Care Retirement Communities.

Relative Value in Municipal Bonds and their Issuers, with Jon Mondillo

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0500

This week, we talk to Jon Mondillo, Head of North American Fixed Income at abrdn. He tells us about taking advantage of strong demand in the marketplace, relative value and perceptions of the interest rate cycle, and the implications that the extension (or lack of extension) of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will have on municipalities and municipal issuers. In Ripped from the Headlines, we dig deeper into the multitude of scenarios that municipal bond issuers are preparing for based on the outcome of the election and its implications on the TCJA.

The Human Capital Crisis in State and Local Public Finance, with Heidi Voorhees

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0500

State and local governments are struggling to hire public finance professionals. Is this due to a shortage of qualified individuals, or something else? We talk with Heidi Voorhees, co-founder of GovHR USA and GovTempsUSA about recruiting strategies and how government agencies can incentivize professionals - from recent college grads to those working in the private sector - to work in public finance. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss what college graduates look for in potential employers, and how employers can make themselves competitive for applicants.

The New Politics of Local Budgeting

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0500

From small municipalities to large urban centers, how do we define "politics" in local government budgeting? How do elected officials and finance professionals build trust and credibility with the public? And what does politics mean as we "reinvent" local budgeting. Join us for a master class on these and other questions in our third and final interview from the 2024 GFOA conference, where we sat down with Rick Cole, Chief Deputy Comptroller for the City of Los Angeles; Mike Bailey, Director of Internal Audit for Northshore School District in Washington; Amelia Powers Gardner, Commissioner of Utah County, UT; Daniel Ramos, OMB Director for Harris County, TX; and Andrew Scott, Deputy COO of Portland Metro.

Leveraging Federal Money, with Kevin Bain

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0500

How has Detroit turned around their finances to receive a major credit upgrade? What challenges still linger, especially when it comes to using federal money and tax credits effectively to invest in the community? Learn the answers to these questions and more in our second installment of interviews from the 2024 GFOA conference, where we spoke with Kevin Bain, Director of Strategy for the City of Detroit.

Investing in the Prairie State, with Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Our state treasurer series continues with Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs. We discuss responsible financial stewardship; the state of ESG; Illinois' investment strategies; and hear about some unique and fascinating unclaimed property stories! In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss the effects of out-migration on Illinois' economy and the challenges of creating policy to reverse this trend.

The Moving Parts of California's Budget, with Jennifer Johnston

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Housing affordability, the boom-and-bust cycle of the tech industry, and fiscal policymaking at the ballot box. How does a credit analyst view California's unique state and local public finance? Join us as we sit down with Jennifer Johnston, Senior Vice President and Director of Municipal Bond Research at Franklin Templeton to hear her perspective. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss the latest budget deal reached in California to address its deficit, and what $16 billion in budget cuts means for the state.

Rethinking Financial Reporting?

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0500

In our season 3 premiere, we caught up with speakers from the panel on "Rethinking Financial Reporting" at the 2024 GFOA Conference in Orlando. We dive into themes from the panel like technology in finance, the future of financial reporting, and careers in government finance with our guests, David Guo, Regents Distinguished Professor of Public Finance at the Hugo Wall School of Public Affairs at Wichita State University; Jennifer Becker, Financial Services Director for the City of Burbank, California; and Sharon Edmundson, Director of Municipal Finance Programs for the NC League of Municipalities in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Financial Leadership in the Golden State, with California Treasurer Fiona Ma

Mon, 06 May 2024 05:00:00 -0500

We wrap up Season 2 with California Treasurer Fiona Ma. We cover California’s deficit; the challenge and opportunity of ESG investing; why housing affordability is California's number one policy challenge; how she advocates for Calfornia's agriculture; why she's a card carrying SAG member; and how Kristi Yamaguchi helped her save San Francisco's Cow Palace, among many other topics. In Ripped from the Headlines, we look deeper into California's plan to put multiple bond proposals on the ballot to address some of its ongoing challenges.

Season 2 Retrospective

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0500

As we wrap up season 2, we look back at some of the themes that dominated the season. These key themes include state revenue challenges, the emergence of AI in public finance, cybersecurity, the impact of e-sports on public finance, the economies of "industry" cities, and how municipalities are thinking about building back better.

Paying for the Polls, with Zach Mohr

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0500

We talk to Zach Mohr, Professor at the University of Kansas, about all things elections (not campaign!) finance. He unpacks the many types election administration costs; why states are banning private investment in elections administration; how elections administration competes with other core state/local services; and why, given all these challenges, elections administration is "a miracle." In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss an article that explains how the looming threat of federal government shutdowns interferes with predictable funding for state/local elections.

Leading for Local Resilience, with Genesis Gavino

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0500

We welcome Genesis Gavino, Chief of Staff and Resilience Officer for the City of Dallas, TX. She explains why resilience is an environmental, financial, and equity issue; the challenges of climate adaptation for a "Blue City in a Red State"; why Dallas has prioritized climate adaptation; how the city measures progress and holds itself accountable for resilience goals and plans; and how membership in voluntary climate organizations helps create urban resiliency, among many other topics. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss a story from The Atlantic about how "climate migrants" might remake the Great Lakes region.

Changes, Constants, and Cycles in California Budgeting, with Gabe Petek

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0500

We converse on California's state budget with Gabe Petek, Legislative Analyst for the State of California. He explains California's dueling state budget deficit figures; why the current revenue shortfall is different than the 2008 recession; how much of California's budget woes are "structural" vs. "cyclical"; how he and Governor Newsom propose to address the budget deficit; why economic mobility matters to state budgeting; and how Gabe's prior life in Muniland shapes his views the Legislative Analyst's role, among many other topics. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss a story about how a new education program in Maryland is leading to large projected budget deficits over the next few years.

The Cost of Administrative Burden, with Don Moynihan

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Professor Don Moynihan from Georgetown University's McCourt School of Public Policy shares his views on "administrative burden." He tells us how he defines administrative burden and why it's important for state and local public money, the opportunities and trade offs involved in reducing administrative burden, and what the pandemic taught us about how we might redesign the social safety net. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss an article about Maine's move to offer free lunch to all public school students, and what that move has meant for data about poverty.

The Advent of AI in Auditing, with Casey Kopcho

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0500

We talk to Casey Kopcho, principal auditor in the Oregon Secretary of State's office. He shares his thoughts on the risks, opportunities and outlook for artificial intelligence in state government, with emphasis on AI and election integrity, how we might regulate AI; and why Furbees are the original AI, among many other topics. In Ripped from the Headlines, we talk about a piece that covers Nebraska's AI and Democracy Summit.

Banking on Bond Banks, with Michael Gaughan

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0500

We talk to Michael Gaughan, Executive Director of Vermont Bond Bank (and rumored long-time Public Money Pod fan). He tells us why bond banks are well-equipped to meet the unique capital markets challenges of small and rural communities, how the Bank is focused on climate adaptation investments, and how they are leveraging federal dollars from the IRA and IRJA, among many other topics. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss a report on the nation's crumbling drinking water systems, and how breakdowns in those systems impact local communities and economies.

Public Money and Opportunity Zones, with Matt Wachter and Drew Whiting

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0500

We visit with Matt Wachter and Drew Whiting, co-founder and current Executive Director, respectively, of the Erie (PA) Downtown Development Corporation. They share Erie's experience with Opportunity Zones (OZs), including a remarkably fast launch; building community around OZs; the challenge of sustaining progress; what OZs mean for local public finance; and how they define success. In Ripped from the Headlines, we review a story covering the proposed changes in the renewal of the federal OZ legislation.

Accounting for Public Assets, with Dag Detter

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0500

We talk to Dag Detter, author of The Public Wealth of Cities and advisor to governments around the world. We consider how state/local governments account for long-term assets, why he thinks current accounting rules are not up to the task, and his vision to fix it. He also lays out his argument for public wealth funds in the United States. In Ripped from the Headlines, we continue the conversation about public finance and real estate with a story about Meriden, Connecticut's plan to sell vacant public land.

Financial Leadership from the GFOA, with Laura Allen

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500

We welcome Laura Allen, budget analyst with the Maryland Department of Budget and Management AND current President of the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA). We discuss GFOA's priorities for the year, with special emphasis on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in public finance; GFOA's research agenda; and why public money is a great career for women, among many other topics. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss a story about the future of government jobs with the emergence of artificial intelligence.

Optimizing Innovation, with Kansas Treasurer Steven Johnson

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500

We continue our state treasurer series with Kansas Treasurer Steven Johnson. We discuss his office's role in distributing federal funding; his take on the Kansas "Income Tax Experiment"; the state’s philosophy on ESG investing, why Modern Portfolio Theory is alive and well in the Sunflower State; and adventures in unclaimed property. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss the National Association of State Budget Officers' latest edition of the Fiscal Survey of the States.

Baby Bonds and Banking for Bud, with Washington State Treasurer Mike Pellicciotti

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500

We continue our state treasurer series with Washington State Treasurer Mike Pellicciotti. We discuss how his office has led the legislative effort on savings at birth (Baby Bonds) and for retirement (auto IRAs), and why savings is a rural economic development tool; his advocacy for the federal SAFE Banking Act for financial services for recreational marijuana businesses; and why he sees the anti-ESG movement as dangerous. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss Citi's exit from the municipal bond business.

Causes, Costs and Creative Solutions to Homelessness, with Dawn Lang and Riann Balch

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500

We talk to Dawn Lang (CFO) and Riann Balch (Community Resources Manager) from the City of Chandler, AZ. They walk us through the causes and consequences of their city's rise in homelessness, the success of their Community Navigators program, how homelessness touches both the revenue and the spending side of the Activity Statement, and how they're planning for the coming fiscal cliff, among other topics. In Ripped from the Headlines, we look at an article about how Colorado has worked to create a better user experience to improve participation in their family leave program.

Public Money in the Bayou State, with Louisiana Treasurer John Schroder

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500

We talk to Louisiana Treasurer John Schroder about Louisiana's finances. He shares his views on ESG investing, how pension investing can drive economic development, and why integrity is everything in public finance. In Ripped from the Headlines, we continue the discussion about Louisiana with a story about how changes in property insurance coverage in the state is affecting public school districts finances.

Visions of a Public Finance Futurist, with Megan Kilgore

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We visit with Megan Kilgore, City Auditor for the City of Columbus, Ohio. She explains the challenges and opportunities of an income tax-driven municipality; the keys to timely financial reporting; transparency and timeliness in the wake of the Financial Data Transparency Act (FDTA); and the future of municipal finance, among many other topics. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss S&P’s warning to Santa Fe, NM following that city's chronic lateness in financial reporting.

Financial Leadership in the Silver State, with Abbe Yacoben

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We visit with Washoe County, Nevada CFO Abbe Yacoben. She describes the County's unique financial challenges and opportunities; its efforts to address housing affordability; why it's investing in election infrastructure; and how to build a career in financial leadership, among many other topics.. In Ripped from the Headlines, we talk about some analysis of the San Francisco-to-Seattle exodus.

"Two Questions Deep" on AI and Public Money, with Morgan Wright

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We talk to Morgan Wright, a renowned expert on government tech, AI, and cybersecurity. He shares his view on tech talent in the public sector, how cities and states should think about tech infrastructure investment, and where he thinks AI can help or hurt governments. In Ripped from the Headlines, we talk about a story giving more details about a growing interest in the public sector in hiring private sector tech talent, and what that might mean for the future of tech in the public sector.

Observations on OPEB Obligations, with Travis Ahern

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We visit with Travis Ahern, Town Administrator of Holliston, Massachusetts. He explains the challenges and opportunities of other post-employment benefit (OPEB) liabilities, Holliston's approach to funding OPEB, how OPEB and pensions are both alike and unlike, and why "soft liabilities" matter to credit ratings, among many other topics. In Ripped from the Headlines, we talk about the State of Connecticut’s progress on pension funding and ongoing challenges with OPEB funding.

Financial Leadership for Sustainability, with Pamela Frederick

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We talk to Pamela Frederick, CFO of the Battery Park City Authority in New York City. She describes Battery Park City's unique sustainability challenges, the opportunities for investing in the infrastructure of sustainability, the broad skillset required of today's state/local CFO, and some thoughts on further research in the climate and resiliency finance arena. In Ripped From the Headlines, we recap one of Liz’s recent Route Fifty articles about the challenging property/casualty insurance markets in California and Florida.

SPECIAL EPISODE - 2023 Election Recap with Alan Greenblatt

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We have a family meeting with Alan Greenblatt, reporter from Governing, to recap what the 2023 election results mean for state and local public money. We talk about tax cuts in Texas and Colorado, why voters are more likely to pass sin taxes, and what this election tells us about 2024 and the potential public money landscape.

Non-Profit Hospitals' Financial Health, with Bobby Bruning

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We talk to Bobby Bruning from Kaufman Hall about the financial health of non-profit healthcare. He talks about the financial challenges facing some non-profits; why non-profit hospitals are not a "credit stressed" sector; the many ways that non-profit hospitals provide community benefits; and the sector's unique exposure to the 2024 election. In the Ripped from the Headlines, we look at trends in employment in the healthcare sector with a story from Healthcare Dive.

Big and SMAll Opportunities in Municipal Bonds, with James Pruskowski

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We visit with James Pruskowski, Chief Investment Officer at 16Rock Asset Management. He explains the remarkable growth in municipal SMAs (Separately Managed Accounts), what advice he has for issuers of municipal bonds to take advantage of the increase in SMA investment, and his view on the trends in the municipal bond market going forward. In Ripped from the Headlines, we talk about three Chicago governments' recent bond issuance with a story from Bloomberg.

Candy Crush, Call of Duty and Capital Budgets, with Joost Van Dreunen

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We cover the state of play in interactive entertainment (i.e. video games) with Professor Joost van Dreunen from NYU's Stern School of Business. He tells us how video gaming is different from entertainment and music; what video gaming means for state/local fiscal policy and economic development; how we might regulate the industry; and why we need more video gamers in government. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss how the Wayfair ruling has allowed state and local governments to adapt state/local tax policy to the digital world generally, and video gaming in particular.

Spock, Mr. Miyagi and Government Performance, with Michael Jacobson

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We talk to Michael Jacobson, Deputy Director of Performance Strategy in the King County (WA) Office of Performance, Strategy, and Budget. He shares insights about all things performance management; why performance management belongs in the budget office; how to make accountability less daunting; and what Spock and the Karate Kid have to do with performance management. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss how Henderson, Nevada is using data to confront their biggest challenge: the water shortage.

Financial Leadership, Public School Style - with Tamara Mitchell

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We talk school finance with Tamara Mitchell, Assistant Superintendent for Business & Financial Services for the Joliet, IL School District 86. She talks where public money for schools comes from and where it goes; the good and the bad of being state funded versus property tax funded; how Joliet School District 86 won 70% approval for a referendum on last year’s ballot; and how they were impacted by the influx of federal funding during COVID. In Ripped from the Headlines, we continue the discussion about COVID funding talking about the incoming fiscal cliff for school districts.

EMERGENCY EPISODE - Surviving the Shutdown - with Emily Brock

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 17:30:00 -0500

On this "emergency family meeting" episode we talk federal government shutdown with the Government Finance Officers Association's federal government guru Emily Brock. She shares what we've learned from past shutdowns, how the forthcoming shutdown will affect state and local finances, and how state and local finance officials can respond, among many other topics.

Antiquated to AI in Muni Finance, with Matthew Gerstenfeld

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We talk to Matthew Gerstenfeld, CEO and Founder of Munichain. He talks about the evolution of the municipal market, why the muni market is slow to adopt new technology, and what AI could offer to the market in the future, among many other topics. In Ripped from the Headlines, we talk about an article from CityLab titled "What it Looks like when AI Designs a City" that brings to life the many ways AI might transform city planning, economic development and finance.

Paying for Results 2.0, with Caroline Whistler

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We talk to Caroline Whistler of Third Sector Capital Partners, who reflects on her decade plus in the Pay for Results space with state and local governments. She explains how that space has evolved, the importance of data in outcomes oriented government, and how civil servants are crucial to ensure public money has the biggest impact possible. In Ripped from the Headlines, we talk about the impact of the child tax credit, as highlighted in a new comprehensive Urban Institute report.

Investing in People in the First State, with Treasurer Colleen Davis

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We continue our conversations with state treasurers, this time with Delaware Treasurer Colleen Davis. She tells us about her work in expanding the state’s 529 program, how she’s addressing banking deserts, and the highs and lows of being a AAA credit state, among many other topics. In Ripped from the Headlines, we look into some surprising trends in higher education enrollments and investments with an article from the Pittsburgh Post Gazette.

Smart Investments for Cybersecurity, with Omid Rahmani

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We talk to Omid Rahmani from Fitch Ratings about the intersection of cybersecurity and public finance. He describes the many types of cyber risks governments face, how to budget for digital infrastructure, why cyber risk is a national security concern, and why Sly Stallone is a cybersecurity expert. We continue to the discussion about the impact of cyber attacks in Ripped from the Headlines with a report from Blackberry's Cyber Security Report.

Sales Taxes in the Wake of Wayfair, with Max Behlke

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0500

Liz talks to Max Behkle, Deputy Executive Director for the Institute for State Policy Leaders, about South Dakota v. Wayfair, the Supreme Court that allowed states to collect sales taxes on remote sales. Max worked for the National Conference of State Legislatures at the time and was instrumental in the case as well as remote sales tax policy across the country. Max also shares what he's currently working on at the Institute for State Policy Leaders. There is no Ripped from the Headlines segment, and Justin is on vacation.

Win-Win Investments in Water Infrastructure, with Josh Weimer

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We visit with Josh Weimer from the Turlock (CA) Irrigation District about the challenges and opportunities of water infrastructure. We focus the discussion on Project Nexus, a plan to cover canals with solar panels. He shares how this is a project with many co-benefits and the potential for other water and irrigation districts across the country and the world. In Ripped from the Headlines, we discuss a Route 50 article about the federal government's investment in the new Arizona-California-Nevada deal to conserve Colorado River water.

Public Money in the Media Capital of the World, with Jennifer Becker

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We talk to Jennifer Becker, Director of Financial Services for the City of Burbank, about how the actors and writers strike is affecting finances in Burbank, the highs and lows of being an industry town, Southern California's economic challenges, and how she'd fix California's Proposition 13. In Ripped from the Headlines, we take a deeper dive into the economic impact of the strike.

Building Better Defaults, with David Schleicher

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We visit with Yale law professor David Schleicher about his new book, In a Bad State: Responding to State and Local Fiscal Crises. We talk about why the tradeoffs when cities address fiscal distress, how the Chapter 9 process could be improved, and why Arkansas is the American Argentina. In Ripped from the Headlines, Liz talks about her reporting on Chester, Pennsylvania's receivership and the political fallout of a municipality declaring bankruptcy.

State Revenues Today and Tomorrow, with Lucy Dadayan

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We talk to state budgeting expert (and Public Money Pod fan!) Lucy Dadayan from the Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center about all things state revenues. She explains the wide variation in revenue trends across sources and states; the many challenges of inflation; and her best predictions for FY24 and beyond, among many other topics. In the Ripped from the Headlines segment, we take a closer look at how states are managing their debt.

Tractors, TRA and Timeless Finance Tools, with Mitchell Smith

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We talk to Mitchell Smith, Director of Government and External Affairs for the Council of Development Finance Agencies. We cover the history and development of Community Development Finance Institutions; how CDFIs finance everything from tractors to solar panels; how new finance tools are a lot like old finance tools; and exciting pending legislation that would expand opportunities for CDFIs. In Ripped from the Headlines, we talk about new studies showing inequalities in urban heat stress and its impact.

Taxation without Representation, with Glen Lee

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We kick off season 2 with Glen Lee, the CFO of Washington D.C. We talk about the federal government’s role in D.C’s finances, the challenge of reviving D.C’s downtown and transit system, and why D.C is similar and different to other cities we’ve heard about. We again revisit the transit discussion in Ripped from the Headlines to learn more about the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WAMATA's) future.

Budgeting for Equity and Opportunity, with Katie Johnston and Matthew Stitt

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 05:00:00 -0500

In our second episode recorded live at the Government Finance Officers Association 2023 annual conference in Portland, OR - and our final episode of Season 1 - we visit with Katie Johnston, Budget Manager for the City of Tacoma, WA and Professor Matthew Stitt, Director and National Lead for Equitable Recovery and Strategic Financial Initiatives at PFM. We discuss why financial sustainability is an equity issue, how Covid changed citizen expectations for community engagement in budgeting, and the challenges of measuring how resource allocation affects equitable outcomes, among many other topics.

Unlocking State and Local Assets, with Ben McAdams

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We caught up with Ben McAdams, Senior Fellow at the Sorenson Impact Center at the David Eccles School of Business at the University of Utah, at the Government Finance Officers' Association 2023 annual conference in Portland, OR. We discuss how states and localities can evaluate the value and opportunity costs for capital assets, how to retrofit downtowns in the post-Covid, and why real estate assets are like public pensions, among other topics.

Going to the Moon, with Chris Brown

Mon, 29 May 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We continue our conversations with state/local CFOs, this time with City of Houston Controller Chris Brown. He explains Houston's remarkable $6 billion pension reform, why other post-employment benefit (OPEB) liabilities are the next big fiscal challenge, what other CFOs can learn from Houston's experience, and why "Structurally-Balanced Budget" is a hot new drinking game, among other topics. In Ripped from the Headlines we discuss the "fiscal cliff" for local transit systems.

Episode Revisit - Old Pipes, New Data and the Future of Infrastructure Finance, with Eric Horvath

Mon, 22 May 2023 05:00:00 -0500

The White House just released a progress report on its plan for more than a trillion dollars of new infrastructure spending (Spoiler Alert: A lot of work remains!). That report reminded us of one of our favorite episodes - Eric Horvath from the City of South Bend, Indiana. In that episode, Eric described how South Bend reinvented its wastewater/stormwater management infrastructure using lots of data, a bit of money and plenty of innovation. We thought it appropriate to share that episode once again.

Point Procurement at the Goal, with Mariel Reed

Mon, 15 May 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We examine the ever-evolving relationship between state/local procurement and finance. Mariel Reed of Pavilion joins us to explore the interface of state/local procurement, technology and public finance. She explains how procurement can be a strategic resource and change agent, when procurement can make money, and what state/local government and tech companies can learn from each other, among many other topics. In Ripped from the Headlines we discuss how New York State - and other states and localities - use procurement processes to connect with historically underserved communities.

Medicaid and the State of State Budgets, with Richard Auxier

Mon, 08 May 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We take a deep dive on all things Medicaid, starting with its outsized impact on state budgets. Richard Auxier from the Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center walks us through the state-federal Medicaid funding partnership, why "redetermination" matters, the Medicaid policy trade-offs states will face in the near future, and why FMAP rates should be part of everyone's dinner conversation, among many other topics. In Ripped from the Headlines we look at how Medicaid redetermination might affect children.

Focus on Good Stuff, with Nevada Treasurer Zach Conine

Mon, 01 May 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We continue our conversations with state treasurers, this time with Nevada's Zach Conine. He explains fiscal policy for financial booms and busts, the promise of baby bonds, how the Treasurer can build bridges within state government, why anti-ESG legislation complicates his fiduciary duty, and why COBOL programming is still sexy. In Ripped from the Headlines we discuss Indiana's emerging anti-ESG legislation.

Public Finance "On Chain", with Steve Winterstein

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We mull over the past, present and future of blockchain technology in public finance. Steve Winterstein from Alphaledger breaks down what it is, what it means for public finance professionals and taxpayers, why state and local governments are slow to adopt new technology, and why "complete provenance" and "genesis record" are coming to a municipal bond transaction near you. In Ripped from the Headlines we contemplate states' and localities' efforts to tax, or not tax, blockchain hosts.

Link to the article referenced in Ripped from the Headlines: https://cointelegraph.com/news/arizona-governor-vetoes-bill-targeting-taxes-on-blockchain-node-hosts.

Season 1 Retrospective

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We look back on our first 25 episodes and focus on lessons learned and surprising moments. Key themes include: the expanding definition of infrastructure, the expanding role of big data in state/local finance, the ongoing effects of economic uncertainty, and the human side of financial leadership.

Fixing Roads and Forecasting Revenues, with Michigan Treasurer Rachael Eubanks

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We continue our conversations with state Treasurers, this time with Michigan Treasurer Rachael Eubanks. She explains how appointed treasurers are different, how her office is helping to "Fix the Damn Roads," forecasting revenues in an uncertain economy, and why spiffing up your vacation cottage is good tax policy, among lots of other topics. In Ripped from the Headlines we discuss South Carolina's $3.5 billion cash mishap.

Tax Incentives - "Bad Policy, Good Politics," with Nathan Jensen

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We reflect on the "plus ça change" of state and local tax incentives. Professor Nathan Jensen of the University of Texas-Austin (and Justin's fellow Wisconsinite/Green Bay Packers shareholder) explains why tax incentives are "bad policy but good politics," with focus on why elected officials can't seem to get enough of them, why less is more for incentive transparency, and how the federal government may have accidentally set off the next generation of incentive wars, among many other topics. In Ripped from the Headlines we revisit the promises made and promises kept on Amazon's "HQ2" sweepstakes.

Link to the article referenced in Ripped from the Headlines: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-03-21/amid-stalled-construction-in-national-landing-amazon-gets-no-hq2-incentives

Fix-It Financial Leadership, with Mark Scott

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We discuss the challenges of engaging elected officials in their community's financial story. Legendary City Manager Mark Scott explains how the Los Angeles Riots transformed Beverly Hills, how municipal bankruptcy transformed San Bernardino, how to engage elected officials in financial decisions, and the public finance of Coachella, among many other topics. In Ripped from the Headlines we enumerate the challenges and opportunities of the Financial Data Transparency Act.

Today's Municipal Credit Landscape, with Suzanne Finnegan

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We take a walk down Memory Lane, reminiscing on how the Great Recession shaped today's municipal credit analysis and financial disclosure. Suzanne Finnegan from Build America Mutual (BAM) explains the renaissance in municipal bond insurance, how bond insurance benefits issuers of all sorts, insuring and investing for sustainability, and why she's watching emerging trends in the housing market, among many other topics. In Ripped from the Headlines we ponder why investors are exiting the residential real estate market, and what that means for local public finance.

Policing Public Pensions, with Natalie Cohen

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We take apart the "three-legged" stool of public pension funding, and explain why taxpayers should care about wonky details like discount rates and private equity fees. Natalie Cohen from National Municipal Research, Inc. walks us through the current public pension landscape, including into who decides where pension money goes, pension investing in the face of market volatility and normalizing interest rates, pensions and ESG, and why pension contributions relative to annual spending is "a thing," among other topics. In Ripped from the Headlines we follow up on Liz's recent work on pension governance.

Links to Liz's articles mentioned in Ripped from the Headlines:

https://www.route-fifty.com/finance/2023/01/chester-pennsylvania-municipal-chapter-9-bankruptcy/382142/

https://lizfarmer.substack.com/p/who-polices-pensions

Taking on the Urban/Rural Savings Divide, with PA Treasurer Stacy Garrity

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We unpack the many hats worn by our state/local treasurers and comptrollers. Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity joins us - accompanied by Dr. Kyle Kopko from the Center for Rural Pennsylvania - for a careful look at the urban/rural savings divide in 529 college savings plans, building trust in financial institutions, and George Clooney's starring role in unclaimed property. In Ripped from the Headlines we discuss the challenges of financing access to critical health care in rural areas.

Stateline's article: pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/blogs/stateline/2023/02/17/texas-town-tries-a-new-model-for-saving-rural-health-care

Mickey, Mosquitos, and the Mysteries of Special District Finance, with Chris Goodman

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We give special treatment to special district finances, motivated by Disney's special district kerfuffle in Florida. Professor Chris Goodman from Northern Illinois University walks us through the history and development of special districts, where their money comes from and where it goes, whether they're effective and accountable, and why Mickey and Donald might appear at a special district board meeting soon. In Ripped from the Headlines we discuss the indirect but powerful public finance connections between insurance premiums and gentrification.

Leaning Into Lodging Taxes, with Sam Hecker

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We continue our ongoing deep dive on the public finance of post-pandemic downtowns, including insights from Liz on neighborhood-downtown relations, and research findings from Justin on local lodging taxes. Sam Hecker from the Seattle Convention Center explains how SCC managed through a pandemic with no conventions, why natural amenities are the key to healthy post-pandemic downtowns, and the future of lodging taxes, among many other topics. In "Ripped from the Headlines" we explore the politics and economics of taxing non-profits.

Accounting, Accountability and Human Capital with LaShon Ross

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We explore the surprising disconnect between accounting and accountability, especially for federal money now flowing into local governments. LaShon Ross from the City of Plano, TX describes the human capital challenges and opportunities in local government today, and explains why coaching, hard conversations and "multi-directional" accountability are essential to effective local government budgeting. In "Ripped from the Headlines" we discuss recent developments in state taxation of digital advertising.

Link to the article referenced in the episode: //news.bloombergtax.com/daily-tax-report-state/states-float-new-taxes-on-digital-ads-social-media-data-mining

Commerce, Cranberries, and State Tax Policy, with Scott Pattison

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We continue our discussion of what the work from home revolution means for state and local public finance. Scott Pattison from the Multistate Tax Commission - "the most important public organization you've never heard of" - walks us through MTC's mission and work, and explains how technology, digital commerce, and sweetened cranberries are reshaping state tax policy. In our new "Ripped from the Headlines" segment we explore the public finance implications of the local incorporation (and de-incorporation) movement.

Old Pipes, New Data, and the Future of Infrastructure Finance, with Eric Horvath

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We describe the confluence of fiscal stress and high technology that's reinventing aging infrastructure in post-industrial cities. Liz highlights her recent work on chronic fiscal stress, and makes clear that getting to bankruptcy is a group effort. Eric Horvath from the City of South Bend, IN tells the story of how South Bend used artificial intelligence and big data to tackle an $800 million stormwater management problem, all for a fraction of the estimated cost. Tyler from Chicago asks: "What are Social Bonds, and why is Chicago selling them?"

Broadband's Financial Future, with Pari Sabety and Krista Canellakis

Tue, 27 Dec 2022 13:30:00 -0500

We devote all our bandwidth to broadband as an infrastructure investment. Pari Sabety and Krista Canellakis from US Digital Response walk us through USDR's work on broadband expansion and access, including how local government can access billions of new federal money, the FCC challenge process, and broadband as an education finance policy issue, among many other topics. Elliot from Florida asks: "What exactly does 'public-private partnerships' mean?"

How to Invest in Community Crisis Response, with Beth Goldberg

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 05:00:00 -0500

We discuss the monumental recent shifts in police budgeting. Beth Goldberg from the City of Kirkland, WA explains how five communities in greater Seattle, against the backdrop of Defund the Police, collaborated to fund and launch a community crisis response service. Emily from Columbus asks: "Are Taylor Swift ticket flippers the same as municipal bond flippers?"

Burning through State Budgets, with Colin Foard

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 05:00:00 -0500

We explore how natural disasters are disrupting state and local finance, including the "known knowns" and the "known unknowns." Colin Foard from the Pew Charitable Trusts shares key takeaways from a new report - "Wildfires: Burning through State Budgets" - on how states can adapt their budgeting processes and techniques to better prepare for wildfires and other natural disasters. Theodore asks: "Do ratings agencies consider climate risk when evaluating the creditworthiness for state and local governments?"

Making Telework Work for Local Government, with Berke Attila

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 05:00:00 -0500

We continue our examination of how "work from home" is reshaping local public finance, including what municipal bond investors are thinking today, and how downtowns might look in a remote future. Berke Attila from the City of Baltimore lays out the challenges of making telework work for local government, and explains how cutting edge thinking about capital budgeting, asset management and information technology systems can help to seize on telework's many opportunities. Alex from Chicago asks: Why don't more states and localities offer free public transit?

!!SPECIAL EPISODE!! Election 2022 and What Comes Next, with Bill Glasgall

Tue, 22 Nov 2022 16:15:00 -0500

We recap what Election 2022 means for state and local public finance. Bill Glasgall from the Volcker Alliance joins us to discuss how a divided Congress will shape the IRA, how states are making fiscal policy at the ballot box, and some local fiscal trouble looming ahead, among many other topics. Sarah from Hinsdale asks: "How about sin taxes on ammo?"

Assessing Property Tax Assessment, with Chris Berry

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 05:00:00 -0500

We look ahead on local property taxes, including what might happen in a world of stagnant house prices, high inflation, and political pressure on local budgets. Professor Chris Berry from the University of Chicago shares the key insights from his path-breaking research on equity in property tax assessment, and shares a sneak peak of his most recent and encouraging findings. Scott from Chicago asks: "What is California's Proposition 13, and is it unique to California?"

Financing Climate Adaptation, with Rudy Salo

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 05:00:00 -0500

We discuss the public finance of climate adaptation, with focus on flood insurance, catastrophe funds, and the complicated role of tax-exempt bond income. Rudy Salo of Nixon Peabody offers his bond lawyer take on building back better after natural disasters, the politics of climate risk disclosure, and a future of "sexy infrastructure." Nancy from Asheville, NC asks: "Why are fiscal year starts and ends so different across states, localities, and the federal government?"

A Master Class on School Budgets, with Harpreet Hora

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 05:00:00 -0500

We go to school on what makes public school finance unique, with a focus on state shared revenues, horizontal equity, and teacher pay. Harpreet Hora from Atlanta Public Schools explains how Covid, inflation, federal money, a tight labor market, equity concerns, a focus on outcomes, and other factors are shaping APS' current and future budgets. Extra Credit: Shelly from Minneapolis asks, "What are lease revenue bonds, and how are they different from other types of bonds?"

Transit Finance on the Move, with Dwight Burns

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 05:00:00 -0500

We discuss the good, the bad, and the uncertain with transit agency finances. Dwight Burns from the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) shares his optimism on DART's financial future, economic development in the Metroplex, and the Texas Longhorns. Johanna from Louisville, KY asks: "How are US Territory finances different from states and localities?"

What Today's Financial Leaders Do Best, with Catherine Tuck Parrish

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 05:00:00 -0500

We discuss new data on emerging trends in work from home, and what those trends mean for state and local revenues, budget-making, and fiscal policy. Catherine Tuck Parrish from Raftelis explains that today's most successful local financial leaders are good on spreadsheets, but great on compassion, empathy, and collaboration. Extra Credit: Beth from South Carolina asks, "Why do some local governments have income taxes, but most others don't?"

The Big Picture on State and Local Pensions, with Keith Brainard

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 05:00:00 -0500

We discuss the shifting landscape for state and local retirement benefits, and what that new landscape means for budgets, employee satisfaction, and the future of the state and local workforce. Keith Brainard from the National Association of State Retirement Administrators explains how state and local public pensions are responding to inflation, rising interest rates, market gyrations, and economic uncertainty. Julius from Oak Park asks: "What are land banks, and what do they mean for state and local budgets?"

Inflation, Uncertainty, and Uncle Sam's Money, with Jeff White

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 05:00:00 -0500

We discuss how local government finance managers are responding for the first time in a long time to two big challenges: inflation and the massive influx of federal government money. Jeff White from Columbia Capital Management joins us for a deep dive on how these challenges are reshaping local government borrowing. Extra Credit: Cindy asks "How much money should a local government keep in its rainy day fund?"

Paying for Tomorrow's Local Government Workforce, with Joshua Franzel

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 05:00:00 -0500

We look at who's leaving the local government workforce, and how municipalities are using federal dollars to stem the tide. Joshua Franzel from the Mission Square Research Institute shares some recent findings on the local government workforce of the future, how we'll pay for it, and why everyone should study budgeting and finance. Extra Credit: Almendra asks, “Why do state and local budgets not talk about return on investment?"

The Federal-Rural Finance Connection, with Mark Funkhouser

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 09:00:00 -0500

We discuss the many ways small and rural local governments are investing their influx of federal cash in climate adaptation, economic development, and infrastructure projects. Mark Funkhouser from Funkhouser & Associates opines on economic development and local government finance in Appalachia, and makes a bold statement on the Backyard Brawl. Extra Credit: Allison asks, “What’s a TIF District, and why are they so controversial?”

The View from DC, with Emily Brock

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 09:00:00 -0500

We discuss what the "Big 3" recent federal laws mean for state and local finance. Emily Brock from the Government Finance Officers Association helps us unpack the Inflation Reduction Act (i.e. the Climate Bill), including the next big trending topic – #NOFO_FOMO. Extra Credit: Mary from Wisconsin asks, “Why do state and local governments take so long to produce their financial statements?”