Regime transition and economic development: the question of “who’s on first?”
Journal of Public Budgeting, Accounting & Financial Management
ISSN: 1096-3367
Article publication date: 1 March 2004
Abstract
Local governments have long been concerned with economic growth and development. Some local governments take an aggressive, proactive stance on economic development, while others take a more incremental, reactionary approach. When economic development opportunities arise, the frequently asked question is “Who’s on first?” Is it the responsibility of local government to take the lead in promoting economic development opportunities, or should local government remain in the background leaving development activities to private developers? This article uses community power theory to examine the evolution of economic development in Wichita, Kansas and the roles played by the public and private sectors and their impact on the course of development activities. In order for a booster regime to be successful, the lead government must establish the legitimacy of the development effort with other potential members of the coalition. The lead government must establish a hospitable business climate and establish a commitment to support the infrastructure and service needs of developers. Coalition members must view the undertaking as a positive-sum gain.
Citation
Wong, J.D. and Pritz, M.G. (2004), "Regime transition and economic development: the question of “who’s on first?”", Journal of Public Budgeting, Accounting & Financial Management, Vol. 16 No. 3, pp. 424-453. https://doi.org/10.1108/JPBAFM-16-03-2004-B007
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2004 by PrAcademics Press