Tax district approved: The St. George City Council approved an economic development district to help fund a proposed 55-acre, multiuse sports complex near Antioch Road and Airline Highway. The facility would host youth sports, school graduations and conferences, with funding potentially coming from levies on new businesses within the district rather than new taxes on existing residents. Mayor Dustin Yates hopes construction can begin as early as mid-2027, with the complex potentially attracting charter school partners and regional sporting events. WBRZ has the full story.
Chatting with medical devices: University of Pennsylvania researchers developed an AI platform that lets patients communicate with implanted medical devices in real time through a secure smartphone app. The technology, tested for epilepsy, could also support patients using insulin pumps, cardiac devices and treatments for Parkinson’s disease, depression and addiction. Researchers say patient feedback could improve the system and help users respond more quickly to potential health risks. The Washington Post has the full story.
COLA bump: Social Security benefits for nearly 72 million Americans will increase 3.6% in 2027, raising the average monthly payment for retired workers by $75 to $2,170 starting in January. The cost-of-living adjustment is intended to help beneficiaries keep pace with inflation, which accelerated in September, while many retirees increasingly rely on investment accounts to support spending. The maximum earnings subject to Social Security taxes will also rise to $192,300 from $184,500 next year. Bloomberg has the full story.
