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It’s November, and “Sergeant Bo, a former member of the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, and a comfort dog was crowned the winner of American Humane Hero Dog Awards, beating four other finalists.”
Sycamore Than You Knew
On the House ~ How do developers finance affordable housing projects, and what key considerations, associated risks, and tools are available through the development process? Our recent policy brief explains.
Rainy Day Funds ~ When can Tennessee use its rainy day funds? The rainy day fund is specifically for unexpected changes in state tax revenue collections. This short explainer answers common questions.
Dollars and Cents ~ Tennessee has collected more revenue than budgeted this fiscal year. How much has been collected via each tax type? Our interactive dashboard answers!
Paying for Schools ~ How much do school districts receive from the federal government? This updated dashboard allows users to view every school district, compare years and districts, and learn more about federal funds by program.
Talk of the Town ~ In a survey of policy insiders, the Sycamore Institute was named one of the top 10 organizations most often seen or heard in connection with state policy issues. This recognition reflects the consistent work of our five-person team to engage, inform, and contribute meaningfully to Tennessee’s policy conversations.
Notes and Quotes ~
The Johnson City Press explained federal funds in Northeast Tennessee, “Data from the Sycamore Institute, a nonpartisan public research center based in Tennessee, shows that in fiscal year 2024, more than $110 billion in federal dollars were directed to the state in the form of grants, pensions, Social Security and other payments.
The Tennessee Journal highlighted West Tennessee’s housing challenges, covering our Housing Policy Summit.
The Times Free Press explained SNAP changes, “Much of that [new tax revenue] amount is drawn down by automatic cost increases from the school funding formula, TennCare cost-sharing and automatic pay raises for state employees, said Mandy Spears.
Not From Around Here
Rhinos and Pumpkins ~ Dollywood donated its leftover Harvest Festival pumpkins to Zoo Knoxville. They were gifted to the rhinos, who used the pumpkins for mental and physical enrichment.
Goat Island ~ Invasive plants ruled Maclellan Island, a nature refuge in the middle of the Tennessee River, visible from downtown Chattanooga. After an unsuccessful prescribed burn to rid the invaders, the city’s fire chief suggested bringing goats to fight the overgrowth.TheNew York Times has the story.
Gun Safety ~ Tennessee, Arkansas, and Utah are the first states in the nation to enact laws that require schools to teach students the basics of gun safety. The Tennessee legislation requires a neutral view on gun-related topics and prohibits the use of actual firearms in the lessons.
Rated G for Graph
Dusting Off the Archives
Locals around the state are sending out annual property tax bills and/or debating property tax changes. Property taxes are the largest source of local revenue for county governments in Tennessee. Our 2024 report explains that county property taxes vary, and tax rates alone don’t tell the whole story.
