Slippery Slope

Israeli mayors are making apparently improper use of public funds to promote themselves via friendly billboards, particularly when seeking reelection. Among those accused of this practice are the mayors of Kfar-Saba, Hod HaSharon, and Givataim. (Haaretz)

(Hebrew – Haaretz)

Beitar Illit mayor, Meir Rubinstein, was questioned under warning on suspicion that he tried to prevent residents from complaining about two of the city’s residents who allegedly assaulted and threatened female residents they deemed guilty of “unchaste behavior.” (Ynetnews)

(Hebrew – Ynet)

Zvi Bar, mayor of central city Ramat Gan, faces allegations of bribery at close to $500,000 in addition to fraud, breach of trust and money laundering, and obstruction of justice.

Nazareth Illit mayor Shimon Gapso demanded the removal of Russian language signs hung in the city, claiming that they are missionary in nature and are offensive to the Jewish public.

(Hebrew - Mynet)

The city of Taibe has not had a mayor since 2007, when an appointed committee was set up to manage the city.  According to residents, there is no street lighting or signage, and the streets and sidewalks are filled with potholes and sewage.

(Hebrew)