Local News

Local government entities could have new ways to increase investment revenue under a bill that passed the House and is awaiting attention in the state Senate.
Most local governments now rely on investments such as securities and certificates of deposit, often at a poor rate of return. House Bill 75 would allow them to pursue more aggressive investment through mutual, closed-end and exchange-traded funds and through high-quality corporate bonds — all within certain limits and under the guidance of a professional investment adviser.

The state Department for Public Health says this season’s influenza activity is now considered an epidemic.
Health officials are warning that this season’s strain of the flu virus can be extremely serious, even deadly – and not just for those in high-risk categories. In general, children, the elderly, extremely obese people, and those with chronic health conditions or weak immune systems are considered at higher risk of getting the flu.

The unusually cold start to 2018 has resulted in higher than normal energy use by members of Salt River Electric and other utilities across the region.

Salt River Electric is encouraging members to be aware of their energy use and take steps to help manage electric bills, which are also expected to be higher than usual as a result of increased usage.

Weather, especially cold weather, affects residential energy bills more than any other factor. Heating claims about a 42 percent share of overall energy use in U.S. homes.