Utility

Former Independence Official Pleads Guilty to Tax Evasion Amid Scrutiny Over High-Profile Utility Contracts

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Independence, Mo. — A former elected official and attorney, embroiled in long-standing FBI inquiries into local utility contracts, admitted guilt to federal tax evasion charges on Monday. John C. Carnes, 69, who has previously faced imprisonment and legal scrutiny spanning decades, confirmed his evasion of personal income taxes from 2012 through 2018. Carnes was a significant player in municipal decisions during his tenure on the Independence City Council, particularly in the acquisition of land for a solar farm and the controversial demolition of a city-owned power plant. His legal issues resurfaced after he was indicted … Read more

Travis County Environmental Group Launches Lawsuit Against Utility Agency Over Controversial Water Line Project

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TRAVIS COUNTY, Texas — A local environmental advocacy group, Save Our Springs Alliance, is taking legal action against the West Travis County Public Utility Agency and its board members. The lawsuit stems from the approval of a controversial pipeline project intended to service a new development called Mirasol Springs, covering 1,000 acres in the western region of Travis County. The Mirasol Springs development is positioned to receive its water supply from Lake Travis, which has raised environmental and community concerns. The pipeline project, which has been met with opposition from local residents, especially those near … Read more

Lawsuit Targets Gas Utility for Alleged Deception in Climate Change Contributions

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San Francisco, California – In an unprecedented legal challenge, a major gas utility company is facing a lawsuit over allegations that it disseminated false information about the role of natural gas in climate change, potentially marking a significant shift in how energy companies are held accountable for environmental messaging. The lawsuit has been filed by a group of California residents who claim that the utility misled consumers about the environmental impact of natural gas usage, thus contributing to global warming. The case represents the first time a utility company has been legally challenged over climate … Read more

Charlottesville Residents Demand Action as Misplaced Utility Poles Create Hazardous Sidewalk Conditions

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In Charlottesville, Virginia, concerns have emerged regarding ongoing violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) due to the placement of utility poles. These placements often force wheelchair users and other pedestrians to divert into the street, posing significant safety risks. Tom Vandever from the Independence Resource Center highlighted that some sidewalks are too narrow to meet ADA requirements, which stipulates a minimum pathway width of 36 inches, with a possible exception down to 32 inches under specific conditions. Vandever pointed out, “When you force people who use wheelchairs out into the street, you’re just … Read more