Local economists sat down with SBJ Executive Editor Christine Temple on March 3 to discuss the impact of tariffs, consumer and business confidence, workforce trends, and inflation predictions for 2025.

Renee Delann Clouse also is ordered to pay restitution for fraudulently obtaining student loans and tax refunds.

Guest columnist Kayden Guymon: "The challenge for state and federal lawmakers and regulators will be balancing the need for energy infrastructure with the protection of landowners’ property rights, ensuring that renewable energy goals do not come at the expense of individual freedoms."

Some members object to impacts of measure on poorer Springfieldians.

Lawyer says right to counsel bill unfair to landlords, will drive up rental rates.

Greene County Commission is mulling a loan to the board to pay for a consultant’s report after issues with city procurement process.

The measure was passed this week by the Senate General Laws Committee.

Members raise concerns about measure’s effect on poor residents, while bill sponsor points to tax collection deficit.

Brandon Jenson says now is the time to tackle housing issues in Springfield.

Pacts for Job Center operations and fiscal agent services could be terminated with 120 days’ notice. 

Roof repairs at Ozark High School are planned, among other work.

Newsmakers in the areas of banking & finance, health care, human resources, law and nonprofit.

The seven-county Council of Local Elected Officials is taking note of the fractious relationship between the city of Springfield and the Ozark Region Workforce Development Board, which came to a head this month after city officials denied a funding request by the board.

The Workforce Development Board has scheduled a special meeting today to act on payment for its consultant and to vote on existing partnerships with the city of Springfield.

The law on beneficial ownership information reporting requirements has been on and off multiple times.

Hugo Ricardo Huacuz admits to stealing $260,000 from the agency, according to U.S. attorney's office.

The future of the relationship between the city and the Workforce Development Board is under review, says Council of Local Elected Officials Chair Bob Dixon, noting toxic culture does not serve taxpayers, employers or job seekers. 

Public universities are not impacted, spokesperson says.

Guest columnist David Stokes: "Why do people have a particular disdain for property taxes? Perhaps it’s because it’s the only tax many people pay all at once, so it seems to hurt more."

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