The Leage of California cities addresses the tough questions: When is an email a public document? The answer might surprise you.
"Incorporating e-mail into the work environment has had an amazing impact on the efficiency, effectiveness and timeliness with which business is done. In many cases, e-mail has replaced the interoffice memo and ended the frustrating game of telephone tag between employees. For local governments, e-mail has served another purpose connecting citizens to their government. Through city websites and employee e-mail addresses, citizens can connect with their elected officials and city staffers. An e-mail message can be sent at the citizens convenience regardless of office hours and arrive almost immediately. And for elected officials, especially those who serve part time and do not keep office hours at city hall, responding to citizens by e-mail allows a timely, personal response. For many people, e-mail has replaced the telephone call. "
Thanks to Chris Steins
FULL STORY: Email and the Public records Act: Think Before You Delete!

National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions
Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.

Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50
A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.

Delivering for America Plan Will Downgrade Mail Service in at Least 49.5 Percent of Zip Codes
Republican and Democrat lawmakers criticize the plan for its disproportionate negative impact on rural communities.

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Balancing Bombs and Butterflies: How the National Guard Protects a Rare Species
The National Guard at Fort Indiantown Gap uses GIS technology and land management strategies to balance military training with conservation efforts, ensuring the survival of the rare eastern regal fritillary butterfly.
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Mpact (formerly Rail~Volution)
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