Economic Development in Local Government: A Handbook for Public Officials and Citizens

Though local governments have long tried to shape their economies, Congressional passage of the Urban Development Action Grant in 1977 prompted public officials to develop highly focused inducements to entice new businesses to locate to their community. These economic development incentives often include, but are not limited to, land subsidies, low interest financing, flexible zoning laws and infrastructure improvements. The 37 articles in this work, written by some of the leading experts in the field, examine all aspects of economic development, including a general introduction to the field and information on how to set up the staff economic development organizations. An overview of the development process is next, including a review of the incentives available. The application of public-private partnerships is covered in depth, using primarily case studies of successful programs. The future of economic development programs is also examined. Read more