The Moment of Truth

For the past nine months, the Presidentially-created bipartisan “National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform” has been working to develop specific recommendations to address the national deficit.  Released on December 1, 2010, “The Moment of Truth” is a simply written document outlining specific recommendations to address the country’s deficit financial condition. Highlights within the report … Read more

Ongoing Debate Regarding Financial Risk Associated with Water Shortages

Water availability is a concern that is not new to water utilities, especially in certain parts of the country. The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) recently reported that more than 1,100 counties in the United States will face high risks of water shortages by mid-century and more than 400 of the counties will be at … Read more

Pledge of Securities

In the State of North Dakota, NDCC 21-04-13 states that the governing body of a City must approve all pledges of securities at each depository a minimum of two times per year.  The Auditor is responsible for obtaining proof of pledges of securities and for providing the information to the governing body.  The proof of … Read more

Federal Government Funded at FY2010 Level through December 3rd

On September 30th, Congress passed a continuing resolution (CR, H.R. 3081) to fund most federal programs at FY2010 levels through December 3rd.  Prior to Congress recessing for the mid-term elections, work on appropriations bills was well underway.  Committee reports on all except the Interior and Environment bill have been published by the Senate, and House … Read more

Hidden Risks

During the recent credit crisis and resulting economic downturn, a greater focus has been put on hidden risks in assets owned by major investors across the economy.  Growing water scarcity in many regions of the United States is a risk running through municipal bond markets, one that must be addressed to protect the strength of … Read more