Does the public need to know the details of a $95 million deal to preserve the 82,000-acre Hearst Ranch on California's Central Coast?
The Hearst Foundation is pressuring California to approve a $95 million deal for preservation of the Hearst Ranch on California's Central Coast. "Along California's incomparable coast, there is no property more spectacular than Hearst Ranch. Stretching for 18 miles along Highway 1, it is renowned for its shoreline bluffs and ocean views." But details of the plan are sketchy, and a confidentiality agreements prevents state officials from revealing more. An L.A. Times commentary argues that "before the state agrees to the deal, the public must get answers to some critical questions..."
Thanks to Chris Steins
FULL STORY: Hearst Deal Needs Full Disclosure

Manufactured Crisis: Losing the Nation’s Largest Source of Unsubsidized Affordable Housing
Manufactured housing communities have long been an affordable housing option for millions of people living in the U.S., but that affordability is disappearing rapidly. How did we get here?

Americans May Be Stuck — But Why?
Americans are moving a lot less than they once did, and that is a problem. While Yoni Applebaum, in his highly-publicized article Stuck, gets the reasons badly wrong, it's still important to ask: why are we moving so much less than before?

Using Old Oil and Gas Wells for Green Energy Storage
Penn State researchers have found that repurposing abandoned oil and gas wells for geothermal-assisted compressed-air energy storage can boost efficiency, reduce environmental risks, and support clean energy and job transitions.

Updating LA’s Tree Rules Could Bring More Shade to Underserved Neighborhoods
A new USC study finds that relaxing Los Angeles’ outdated tree planting guidelines could significantly expand urban tree canopy and reduce shade disparities in lower-income neighborhoods, though infrastructure investments are also needed.

California's Canal Solar Projects Aim to Conserve Resources and Expand Clean Energy
California’s Project Nexus has begun generating electricity from solar panels installed over irrigation canals, with researchers and state agencies exploring statewide expansion to conserve water and boost clean energy production.

HHS Staff Cuts Gut Energy Assistance Program
The full staff of a federal program that distributes heating and cooling assistance for low-income families was laid off, jeopardizing the program’s operations.
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