The Future in Context e.Republic Editorial

The former Rust Belt state is betting its future on a sought-after natural resource — people — guided by one person in particular. Hilary Doe, the first state chief growth officer anywhere, discusses what’s next.
Michigan is putting its future in the hands of a single person — its first-in-the-nation chief growth officer. Hilary Doe, chief growth officer, expressed her excitement about the transformation of Michigan Central Station into a dynamic hub of innovation. This revitalized landmark in Detroit is not only fostering a thriving startup ecosystem, but also pioneering cutting-edge infrastructure projects like the first self-charging road. As a collaborative community for entrepreneurs and innovators, the station is positioning Detroit and Michigan as nationally recognized centers of opportunity and technological advancement.In this episode of The Future In Context, Doe speaks with Governing Senior Staff Writer Carl Smith about what’s new — and different — in her role, and the state’s approach to economic growth and competitiveness.
SHOW NOTES Here are the top five takeaways from this episode:
Revitalization of Michigan Central Station: The station is being transformed into a hub of innovation, serving as a key focal point for Detroit and the entire state of Michigan. Startup Ecosystem Growth: The area around the station, particularly Newlab in the book depository, is fostering a burgeoning startup scene with 99 new startups already established. Innovative Infrastructure: It’s ground zero for cutting-edge developments such as the first self-charging road, which exemplifies the forward-thinking projects attracting entrepreneurs and innovators. Collaborative Community: The station and its surroundings are becoming vibrant ecosystems where entrepreneurs and innovators can connect, share ideas and collaboratively build future technologies. National Recognition and Opportunity: The transformation of Michigan Central Station is positioning Detroit and Michigan as nationally recognized centers for innovation and opportunity, attracting talent and investment from across the country. Related Link to an item referenced in the episode:
One State Is Putting a Single Person in Charge of Its Growth Strategy Our editors used ChatGPT 4.0 to summarize the episode in bullet form to help create the show notes. The main image for this story was created using DALL-E 3.
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As ridership continues to lag amid a stubbornly slow recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, cities experiment with free rides and micromobility to prove public transit’s worth in worsening financial conditions.
When New York Gov. Kathy Hochul spiked plans to implement congestion pricing in New York City, it took a much-anticipated annual injection of $1 billion out of the mix — just as public transit systems there and elsewhere were looking to the pricing scheme for some good news in an otherwise bleak fiscal landscape.In TFIC’s occasional series, Your Mileage May Vary, senior writers Skip Descant of Government Technology and Jared Brey of Governing discuss the ramifications of Hochul’s decision for transit systems across the country as concerns grow over a looming fiscal cliff from which they may not recover. At the same time, some regions are turning to new policy approaches, including fare-free rides and micromobility solutions, to reinforce the value they bring to their communities.
SHOW NOTES Here are the top 5 takeaways from this episode:
Congestion Pricing Pause in NYC: New York Gov. Kathy Hochul halted New York City’s congestion pricing plan. The plan was set to generate $1 billion annually for public transit, critical for addressing financial shortfalls. Political and Financial Implications: Hochul’s decision may be influenced by upcoming elections, aiming to avoid voter backlash. The halt leaves New York City’s public transit without a vital funding source, exacerbating its financial crisis. Post-Pandemic Public Transit Crisis: Ridership plummeted during COVID-19 and is recovering slowly. Transit systems face significant budget deficits as they struggle to regain fare revenue and maintain service levels. Alternative Funding and Operations Strategies: Several regions are exploring fare-free rides and micromobility solutions to address budget shortfalls. These measures aim to cut costs and attract riders, but their long-term sustainability and effectiveness are uncertain. State and Local Government Responses: Some state and local governments are stepping in to cover budget gaps. The level of support varies in places from New York to Minneapolis, and the financial viability of transit systems heavily depends on continued government subsidies and innovative funding solutions. Related Links to stories referenced in the episode:
Transit Agencies Must Replace Thousands of Maintenance Workers Why Some Cities Want to Combine Transit Agencies Resisting the Campaign for Safer Streets Eliminate Silos to Innovate Your Transportation System Our editors used ChatGPT 4.0 to summarize the episode in bullet form to help create the show notes. The main image for this story was created using DALL-E 3. 
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Former Compton, CA mayor Aja Brown grew up poor. Early on, she developed a sense of what could be for her community. Later, as an urban planner, she had what she calls a “heart to see Compton reach its full potential.” Once she sat in the mayor’s desk, armed with a 12-point vision plan that reflected community needs and a determination to revitalization her city, she used the levers available to her to nudge Compton toward a preferred future. During her tenure, Brown focused on sustainability, economic development, and youth empowerment, leveraging private investment to drive progress.
“There is no equity without data”
She also championed the Compton Pledge, America’s largest experiment with universal basic income program to help address systemic inequalities. That work has led her to the intersection public policy, philanthropy and technology where she believes data-driven solutions can be better delivered outside of government.
SHOW NOTES
Here are the top five takeaways from this episode:
Community-Centered Leadership: Brown's tenure as mayor was defined by her community-centered approach, rooted in a comprehensive 12-point vision plan that addressed the pressing needs of Compton residents. By focusing on sustainability, economic development, and youth empowerment, she aimed to revitalize the city and empower its citizens.
Innovative Policy Initiatives: Brown's implementation of innovative policy initiatives, such as the Compton Pledge guaranteed income program, showcased her commitment to addressing systemic inequalities. By directly delivering resources to residents during the pandemic, Brown demonstrated the power of combining philanthropy with policy-driven solutions to uplift communities.
Technology as a Tool for Equity: Brown emphasizes the importance of technology, exemplified by platforms like Forward, in streamlining government processes and ensuring equitable distribution of resources. By leveraging data-driven solutions, technology can empower underserved communities and improve the efficiency and transparency of governance.
Continued Advocacy for Change: Brown's work exemplifies a continued advocacy for change and equity in governance. Her dedication to empowering communities and driving transformative initiatives underscores the ongoing need for innovative approaches to address systemic challenges and uplift marginalized populations.
Related Links to items referenced in the episode:
What If Government Just Gave Everyone Cash, No Strings Attached?
Several Los Angeles Cities in Dire Financial Straits The FORWARD Platform Our editors used ChatGPT 4.0 to summarize the episode in bullet form to help create the show notes. The main image for this story was created using DALL-E 3.
 

Eric Goldman, associate dean of research at Santa Clara University School of Law, assesses concerns around the impending TikTok ban or buyout. It faces significant First Amendment challenges, he said.
The debate over the potential TikTok ban, or forced sale under recent federal legislation, hinges on significant legal and constitutional challenges. Eight TikTok influencers have already filed a lawsuit, arguing the ban infringes on their First Amendment rights. Santa Clara University School of Law Associate Dean of Research Eric Goldman joins our Government A to Z, panel, drawing attention to the difficulties the government faces in justifying the ban, noting the lack of publicly available evidence on national security risks and the broader implications for free speech. Goldman suggests that the ban could set a precedent for digital trade barriers, leading to potential international retaliation and exacerbating political distrust among younger Americans. The conversation underscores the complex intersection of technology, law and public policy.TFIC co-host and Government Technology Staff Writer Ashley Silver along with two colleagues from Governing* — Staff Writer Zina Hutton and Digital Editor Zoe Manzanetti, react to Goldman's analysis in thinking about the future of TikTok in the lives of American users. They discuss the app's unique appeal, question whether its algorithm fosters deeper connections and consider the impact of a ban on users and the political landscape.
SHOW NOTES Here are the top five takeaways from this episode:1. Legislative Actions:
President Joe Biden signed a bill to ban TikTok if ByteDance, its Chinese owner, doesn't divest within a year. ByteDance has nine months to sell, with a potential three-month extension if it can demonstrate progress. 2. Legal Challenges:
Eight TikTok influencers are suing the U.S. government, claiming the ban violates their First Amendment rights. Prior bans by the federal government, states and universities have already restricted TikTok usage on government devices. 3. Constitutional Concerns:
Goldman argues the ban faces significant First Amendment challenges, as it affects users’ and the platform’s rights. The lack of public evidence on national security risks weakens the government’s case. 4. Economic and Social Impact:
TikTok is a major platform for income and social interaction for millions, raising questions about the fairness of the ban. The ban could set a precedent for future digital trade barriers, affecting international relations. 5. Public Opinion and Political Pressure:
Younger generations view the ban as a diversion from more pressing issues like housing and climate change. There’s a concern that a ban could increase distrust in the government, particularly among Gen Z and Alpha. Related Links to items referenced in the episode:
Questions Swirl Over Future of TikTok Ownership What Would a TikTok Ban Mean? Our editors used ChatGPT 4.0 to summarize the episode in bullet form to help create the show notes. The main image for this story was created using DALL-E 3. *Governing and Government Technology are both part of e.Republic.
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A new report card called ScanGov monitors and evaluates the fundamentals of government websites in all 50 states and the federal government. The report reveals that half of all states received a failing grade, indicating a need for improvement in transparency, domain credibility, accessibility, and crawlability. The creators of ScanGov, Elias and Luke Fretwell, emphasize that their goal is not to shame governments but to educate and inspire behavioral change. The project has received positive feedback and has already prompted some agencies to make improvements. However, there is still a need for states to prioritize the technical components of their websites and establish dedicated digital service teams.
Keywordsgovernment websites, ScanGov, report card, failing grade, transparency, domain credibility, accessibility, crawlability, civic hacking, behavioral change, digital service teams
Takeaways Half of all states received a failing grade in the ScanGov report card, indicating a need for improvement in the fundamentals of government websites. The creators of ScanGov aim to educate and inspire behavioral change rather than shame governments. Positive feedback has been received, and some agencies have already made improvements based on the report card. States need to prioritize the technical components of their websites and establish dedicated digital service teams to ensure better performance.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction: The Problem with Government Websites
03:15 ScanGov: Evaluating Basic Web Practices
04:43 Inspiring Change through Civic Hacking
09:30 Positive Feedback and Improvements
14:11 ScanGov Report Card: Revealing Failing Grades
 
Related Links to items referenced in the episode: ScanGov: Government digital experience monitor A Young Civic Hacker Could Be the Next Generation of Gov Tech
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From digital inclusion to AI innovation, we take a closer look at Government Technology’s honorees in the 23rd year of its annual awards. In conversation with editorial staff, we focus on the work of five particular leaders.
The editors of Government Technology recently released their annual Top 25 Doers, Dreamers and Drivers for this year. The class of 2024 is noteworthy for continuing a multiyear trend toward gender equity among recipients, with women making up 44 percent of the group. The cross section of public leaders is recognized for their work on digital inclusion, government modernization, innovative application of generative AI, and a collective commitment to improving government services.The episode focuses on five recipients, emphasizing their dedication and humility and underscoring their role in driving positive change at the local, state and national levels. The hosts are joined by Government Technology Managing Editor Lauren Kinkade, Associate Editor Zack Quaintance, Senior Staff Writer Thad Rueter and Data Reporter Nikki Davidson.
SHOW NOTES Amy Huffman, policy director of the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA), stands as a crucial adviser to localities in vying for slices of the federal government’s historic investment of $65 billion in broadband and $2.75 billion in digital equity. The funds are now trickling down to states, where the monumental task of allocation lies. Huffman is helping to guide states in effectively utilizing the funds, facilitating coordination through NDIA’s toolkit and state cohorts. Rob Mancini leads Prince William County, Va.’s IT department, which topped the 2023 Digital Counties Survey, following strong placements in previous years. He helmed the county’s modernization efforts and fostered an inclusive work environment. Mancini's focus is now on enhancing government services, including the implementation of a new AI-powered 311 platform, as part of ongoing efforts to transform the county’s IT infrastructure. Sam Orth, chief technology officer and director of technology in Columbus, Ohio, owes his career trajectory to an early interest in personal computers and a stint at a local computer store in the 1980s. His private-sector sales background informs his current role, emphasizing customer-centricity and the understanding that technology drives change and business outcomes. Orth’s approach, rooted in intrinsic motivation and a focus on trust and authentic communication, shapes initiatives like deploying body cameras for police and establishing the city’s data analytics program, highlighting the importance of people alongside technological tools in building successful IT programs. Kenyatta Powers-Rucker, Maryland Department of Human Services CIO, highlights the absence of mentorship as a significant hurdle in her tech journey — emphasizing the importance of support, particularly for underrepresented groups. With more than 12 years in leadership, Powers-Rucker’s commitment lies in facilitating access to tech resources for those in need while advocating for greater diversity in the industry through speaking engagements, networking and mentorship initiatives. Katy Ruckle, Washington’s chief privacy officer, has spearheaded the state’s privacy initiatives, establishing foundational principles and training programs while leveraging grants for workforce upskilling. In her role since January 2020, Ruckle aims to navigate the evolving landscape of technology, particularly AI, by fostering responsible data usage through collaborative partnerships and community engagement — ensuring Washington remains at the forefront of privacy standards. Related Links to items referenced in the episode:
GovTech’s Top 25 Doers, Dreamers and Drivers 2024 Video Overview of the GT Top 25 Our editors used ChatGPT 4.0 to summarize the episode in bullet form to help create the show notes. The main image for this story was created using DALL-E 3.
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