💸 Where’s your tax money going?

Police Union Files Grievance Over Body Cam Footage

The Fraternal Order of Police filed a grievance with the city after video was released of Jim Rogers' interaction with police in 2021, saying it violates the city’s contract with the union. The video shows Rogers, 54, being shocked by police at least 10 times with a Taser and seemingly losing consciousness while in custody, even after asking for help. He died in a hospital the next day. [90.5 WESA]

• ⚖️ The city settled a case with Rogers' family for $8 million, and a judge’s court order allowed their attorney to release the video — a 52-minute compilation from officers’ body worn cameras, in-car dash cams, and cell phone video from bystanders.
• 🖊️ The union’s grievance says the city acted with “intentionality” and “malice” by not objecting to that court order while some officers still have disciplinary cases before an arbitration panel. [KDKA-TV]
• 🚨 There are a lot of restrictions around releasing body cam footage in Pennsylvania. The podcast team explains why this release is so rare. [🎧 City Cast Pittsburgh]

The Mon Incline Rises Up

The Monongahela Incline is open again — for now. The 154-year-old funicular has been closed since Jan. 2 because of a failure in the electrical and mechanical systems, but it also closed three other times in the last year, including a seven-month renovation project. [TribLIVE]

When Will Kennywood Open?

The amusement park's 126th season will begin April 20. Need a summer gig? Kennywood is hosting hiring events March 9 and April 6. [WTAE]

• 🎢 Did you know? Pittsburgh was once the roller coaster capital of the world. [🎧 City Cast Pittsburgh]

Deadline Extended: Property Tax Discount

Did you notice your real estate tax bill came in late? The city says there was an error causing the delay, and the new deadline to get the early bird discounted rate is Feb. 20 – instead of Feb. 10. [KDKA-TV]

Your Guide to the PA Governor’s 2024 Spending Plan

Gov. Josh Shapiro shared a lengthy wish list in his latest spending plan, including more funding for K-12 and higher education, public transit, gun violence prevention, workforce readiness, and more; but he’s also got his heart set on legalizing recreational cannabis and raising the state’s minimum wage. We’re with Spotlight PA reporter and friend of the pod Stephen Caruso to talk about what’s possible in 2024.