Merida Initiative Oversight Flawed Says GAO
The GAO finds no effective way to measure success of the U S funded Merida Initiative aiding Mexico and Central America in fighting drug traffickers. Only nine percent of 1.6 billion promised from 2008 to 2010 has been spent amid slow implementation and complex budget rules. Authorities vow to improve metrics and timelines for equipment and funding while shifting focus to reforming institutions.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Mexico City
U.S. State Department
Mexico
Central America
Government Accountability Office
Congress
Merida
Engel
House
State Department
Associated Press
U.S
GAO
Susan Pittman
Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs
Wind project debate moves forward in Garden City
City commissioners heard residents concerns about a proposed community wind project. BTI Energy’s Andrew Trapanese highlighted a city site away from homes, strong wind, grid interconnection, and no permitting obstacles, with funding from Parkland Financial Partners and potential federal grants covering up to 30 percent. Residents questioned the project’s financial impact, while others urged action to reduce fossil fuel dependence. The panel scheduled a public hearing for the 2011 budget and discussed annexation of non adjoining land for retail development tied to a Mary Street and Jennie Barker Road realignment.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Andrew Trapanese
BTI Energy Project
Trapanese
Duane West
West
Carlson
Plymell
Windustry
Minneapolis
Kaleb Kentner
Cecil O’brate
East Mary Street
Jennie Barker Road
Mary Street
Officials discuss for action amid county code gap
Allen said Tuesday local officials meet to consider issues as an excuse not to act. County officials note their codes are not as stringent as city ones, with most trailers located at trailer parks inside county limits.
Turtle races draw crowd at Kearny County Fair
The Chantilly 4-H Club hosts annual turtle races drawing many spectators. Children cheer as some turtles race across the finish line while others stay at the start. Organizers note the event engages both 4-H and non 4-H participants and involves many local families. The fair continues with indoor exhibits, meals, bingo, a rabbit and poultry show, and Barnyard Olympics scheduled through the day.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Cindi Craig
Chantilly
Craig
Joe Craig
Kearny County
Agencies told to hold budgets for 2012 plan
State officials impose budget restraint as agencies prepare alternatives in case revenues fall short. Budget Division will shape the 2012 plan due to lawmakers in January. Parkinson departs, successor to sign final version. November revenue forecast to set 2012 outlook amid past shortfalls. Kansas 2010 revenues ended $99 million below projections. $5.2B collected of $5.3B expected. Delayed $79 million in school aid and $53 million pension contribution kept deficit at bay.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Ing
Emler
Parkinson
Legislative Research Department
Kansas
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Felipe Calderon
Yucatan Peninsula
Eliot Engel
New York
Connie Mack
Florida
Parkland Financial Partners
James Carlson
Pete Olson
Finney County
Olson
Garden City
Kansas Connections Academy
Connections Academy
Hampton Inn
Crestway Drive
Landmark National Bank
Landmark
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