Local Government

The Dowagiac, Mich., mayor is demanding an out-of-state company clarify plans to expand a data center in his city, saying the company has only communicated vague details through press releases.

The six-month project, aimed at advancing options for electrified delivery, offered new understanding of digital curb management, its opportunities — and whether parked vehicles are permitted users.

The sheriff’s office has turned off an estimated 200 automated license plate readers, indicating the devices which are part of most patrol cars do not comply with the new state Driver Privacy Act.

Town officials are investigating the incident, which has impacted computer systems and public safety departments. Its 911 phones are working normally and no private data appears to have been compromised.

As chief technology officer, Michael Deegan, an executive with more than 25 years’ experience, will oversee the city’s IT strategy, cybersecurity and infrastructure amid growing digital demand.

The city recently launched its Kensington Dashboard, which offers a comprehensive picture of the area through data, to inform residents and stakeholders about progress toward resolving its challenges.

The Big Apple has its hands full when it comes to environmental issues. The Environmental Tech Lab program gives suppliers a chance to prove their gov tech tools can help solve big problems.

Biggs, a longtime public servant who has served as interim CIO dating back to November, succeeds Randi Stahl in the role, leading the central IT shop for Kansas' capital city.

The county’s Board of Commissioners approved a one-year pact that will bring on a system to automatically record and transcribe emergency calls. Better professional development is one goal.

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority has been making targeted improvements for several years by homing in on several key metrics, to grow its service and yield shorter travel times.

Anonymous fraudsters posing as town officials emailed at least one resident seeking a wire transfer payment for a permit. The incident may be connected to a national phishing scheme.

Veteran county CIO Tim Dupuis marked his last day in place Friday before heading to retirement. The Board of Supervisors named Chief Technology Officer Ram Gurumurthy as interim CIO.

A partnership between Boston Public Schools, the city, higher-education institutions and local industry will begin developing courses, support for educators and hands-on opportunities this summer.

The city now requires electronic requests be made via its online portal, mandates a deposit for large requests and has updated its fees. The moves are intended to smooth the process and recoup actual costs.

A voter-approved charter change banned the devices, but a city councilman said residents may be reconsidering. Mayor Justin Bibb’s “Vision Zero” safety plan includes restoring some.

Meredith Reynolds will step in as acting director of the city’s Technology and Innovation Department, upon the departure of its leader Lea Eriksen. A national recruitment for her successor is underway.

The growing presence and sophistication of school surveillance tech — combined with differing legal processes and local decision-making — leave open questions about how footage is accessed, shared and governed.

The launch of GrantWell, which offers free support to municipal governments, aims to expand their access to federal and state funding. A recent listening tour highlighted local needs.