Citation

Lucero A. Am. City Cty. 1997; 112(5): 42-48.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1997, Penton Media)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This article focuses on financing projects to build and improve public infrastructure across cities and counties in the United States. The author presents funding mechanisms to garner public support for projects. Developer impact fees have become one important tool for funding public facilities and improvements necessary to support new growth. Many developers are required to pay impact fees and a portion of assessments or special taxes for the construction costs associated with new growth. The potential disadvantages of developer impact fees are outlined: fees are not due until development occurs and pre-existing development may not be charged, and new development can only be charged for future impact to infrastructure. Special assessment districts, as provided through most states' enabling legislation, allow a public agency to construct and maintain improvements. Legislation on community facilities districts allows some states to form districts to finance various facilities through special taxes. If a city has built-out area in need of reconstruction, it can use tax increment financing through a redevelopment process. The article concludes with suggestions for garnering public support after the funding issues have been addressed.