International local government news 20.08.24

Here are the latest newsworthy and interesting stories from the local government sector that caught our attention. In this round-up of what’s happening right now in the world of local government, you’ll find best practices, inspiration, and more from across the sector.

GERMANY: Smart pool safety pilot sees success
A year long pilot launched by the Baden-Württemberg Public Swimming Pool Association, Germany, has reportedly been successful. The pilot saw AI technology employed to prevent swimmers from getting in danger or drowning, with the software trained to recognise unusual moves in the water and alert lifeguards so they can respond more quickly. The tech can also detect motionless swimmers and overcrowding. Local authorities expect the software to become more and more widespread by other pool operators.
The Mayor

GERMANY: City organises low-sensory fun fair
In an effort to appeal to people suffering from mental wellbeing disabilities, the City of Aachen has organised its traditional Öcher Bend fun fair to be “low-sensory” for a few hours each day. For the second year in a row, for a few hours the festival had no bright flashing lights or loud noises or beats. Fun fairs are a popular pastime in Germany with a long standing history, and organisers wanted to make sure that everyone can take part in one. The city reported high turn out for the event.
The Mayor

AUSTRALIA: E-scooter rentals banned in Melbourne
City of Melbourne Lord Mayor Nick Reece has announced a ban on the use of rental e-scooters, citing safety concerns. Since February 2022, the Garden City has participated in the Victorian Government’s e-scooter sharing pilot. Cllr Reese said that while the scheme has been popular, there have also been “serious issues”, with the safety of residents “constantly jeopardised” by incorrect use, adding that “E-scooters are thrown across our footpaths, parks and public spaces – creating trip hazards. Residents, visitors and traders have had enough”.
SmartCitiesWorld

USA: Public transport free for a week in New Jersey after summer chaos
After a summer of cancellations and massive delays, New Jersey Transit has announced it is making train and bus rides free for a week at the end of August. Fares will be waived on all public transport modes from August 26 to September 2, with riders who use a monthly pass to receive 25% off their September purchase automatically. The busiest rail corridor in the US suffered greatly this summer due to unusually hot weather, aging infrastructure, and decades of underfunding.
Bloomberg

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