Australian local government has brought cost shifting to the surface once more as it looks like the federal government’s flood insurance costs will be sent to local councils. Though cities such as Canberra have supported local government decisions to remove state government cost shifting, the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) has voiced its concerns regarding indications that the federal government is now considering putting the weight of flood risk insurance…

The National Flood Insurance Program has been renewed for another five years, after a vote from the House on Tuesday.  The program has been struggling financially for several years, unable to withstand the burden of past disasters and new clients. It has long been the last place people could find affordable flood insurance, especially after Hurricane Katrina drove many insurers away from coastal states. The program’s fate now lies in…

Tennessee officials from Washington County are working to try to resolve the ever-increasing problem of abandoned houses and properties. Among the primary issues being faced is that property owners are no longer maintaining their properties and the requirement is falling onto the shoulders of city workers. Though this is a problem within East Tennessee county, it is far from unique to that area alone. Speaking to commissioners, County attorney John…