Governance

How the Worst Methane Leak in U.S. History Could Help Transform California’s Energy Grid

California officials advance plan to use restitution to spur energy innovation.

Mayoral Elections in Kentucky: 2010-2014

This report looks at local elections in Kentucky, including how often mayoral races go unopposed or feature an incumbent.

What's the Big Deal About Houston's New Street Lights?

The new bulbs are causing some criticism. But we need to look at the bigger picture.

Mayoral Elections in California: 1995-2014

This report examines local elections in California, including the impact of off-cycle elections on turnout.

Hispanic Voters in Texas May Be Teaching the Campaigns an Important Lesson

Anti-immigrant rhetoric, some speculate, could have an unintended consequence: boosting Latino turnout.

Does Houston Really Fill 93 Percent of Its Potholes the Next Business Day?

A new Kinder Institute study evaluates Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner's record on filling potholes.

Houston's Former Mayor on Pensions, Politics, and What's Next

Former Houston Mayor Annise Parker says it's not a matter of "if" the city's pensions get addressed -- it's "when."

Filling Potholes: Analyzing the City of Houston's Response

This report tracks the City of Houston's progress in filling potholes.

Latest Podcast: Urban Edge Interviews Former Houston Mayor Annise Parker

The outgoing Houston mayor discusses pensions, the local economy, and what she plans on doing next.

Exit Interview: Salt Lake City Mayor Ralph Becker

The urban planner-turned-mayor reflects on his 8 years in office and how he helped transform the city.

Six Big Issues Facing Houston's New Mayor in 2016

Pensions, police, and infrastructure are all challenges Sylvester Turner will face pressure to address next year.

See the 8 cities with new mayors taking office next month

Houston, Philadelphia, and Indianapolis are among the major U.S. cities poised to get new mayors in January.

How One Chart Explains the "Crisis" of Latino Voting in Houston

Houston is 44 percent Latino, but it could have just one Latino elected official depending on how Saturday's election shakes out.

Voter Turnout is Low. So Why Do We Make People Vote Twice?

Runoff elections are inefficient and inconvenient. But there's another option.

Smart Streetlights are the Tip of the Spear for Smart Cities

It’s the first step for cities looking to grab the “smart cities” mantle: smart streetlights.