Innovative Governments: Creative Approaches to Local Problems

(Hardback)

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Description

Due to state and federally mandated programs, local governments are increasingly resorting to innovative and alternative means of performing their functions because taxpayers are becoming more resistant to tax increases. Certain conditions need to exist for governmental innovation to be possible. This work explores these situations, using case studies in local government to discuss in detail innovative programs in risk management, zoning, stormwater management, public safety, housing, and governmental format.

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[T]his collection of cases would be appropriate for advanced undergradute and graduate courses in public administration and local government. Local officials would also find it very useful.-Perspectives on Political Science
Cost effective, professionally managed government is becoming the norm for local governments today. This work cites recent case studies from the southeast US involving small- to medium-sized governments....For each case, background is provided for the problem at hand, then innovative and flexible solutions applied to solving the problem. Case studies include all the key players, clear communication, and cost-effective solutions, while relying on professional administrative management....Each case study concludes with a quick review about what was learned and what mistakes were made in implementing reforms.-Choice
"This collection of cases would be appropriate for advanced undergradute and graduate courses in public administration and local government. Local officials would also find it very useful."-Perspectives on Political Science
"[T]his collection of cases would be appropriate for advanced undergradute and graduate courses in public administration and local government. Local officials would also find it very useful."-Perspectives on Political Science
"Cost effective, professionally managed government is becoming the norm for local governments today. This work cites recent case studies from the southeast US involving small- to medium-sized governments....For each case, background is provided for the problem at hand, then innovative and flexible solutions applied to solving the problem. Case studies include all the key players, clear communication, and cost-effective solutions, while relying on professional administrative management....Each case study concludes with a quick review about what was learned and what mistakes were made in implementing reforms."-Choice

Author Bio

DOUGLAS J. WATSON is City Manager of Auburn, Alabama, and Visiting Associate Professor at Auburn University. Dr. Watson has been active in local government, and is the author of Politics of Redistributing Urban Aid (Praeger, 1994) and The New Civil War: Government Competition for Economic Development (Praeger, 1995). He continues to be active in researching and writing in the area.