Southwest

The Kansas chapter of the National Federation of Independent Businesses said last week it was "shocked and disappointed" at a city's imposition of a transportation utility fee on property owners based on how much traffic the property generates.

Arkansas' joint adequacy evaluation oversight subcommittee has proposed a 2.5% increase in state funding for local school districts in fiscal 2012 and another 2.9% hike in fiscal 2013.

The Chicago Cubs will campaign strenuously in favor of a financial package to keep the team's spring training operations at its long-time home of Mesa. A vote on the proposal is set for the general election on Nov. 2.

Andrei Cherny, the Democratic candidate for Arizona treasurer, said if elected he would use the office's authority to audit government spending from the Legislature down to the local level.

Preliminary budget numbers for fiscal 2012 outlined for the Scottsdale's budget review commission last week indicate the city may be facing a $28.4 million revenue shortfall.

DALLAS — The Katy Independent School District in Texas is seeking voter approval of a $459.7 million general obligation bond package that would finance construction of five new schools to accommodate its rapidly growing enrollment.

DALLAS — The Lubbock Independent School District will embark on a four-phase capital improvement program if voters approve a $198 million bond program developed by a citizens’ committee.

DALLAS — The Judson Independent School District in Texas will allow voters on Nov. 2 to choose among separate components of a $198.8 million general obligation bond package.

DALLAS — After scrutiny from the Internal Revenue Service over a previous issue of Build America Bonds, Austin is forgoing BABs in its sale of $145 million of general obligation debt this week.

DALLAS — The Bexar County, Tex., Hospital District plans to price $205 million of certificates of obligation Wednesday backed by the Build America Bond subsidy to expand San Antonio’s University Health System.