With "localism" being trumpeted by all sides of the political spectrum, maybe it's time to ask if local needs are better served by nation states, writes Doug Saunders.
"Just because things are federal does not mean they are more 'remote' or less accountable than provincial or local governments. Quite the contrary: A well-run federal agency is likely to reach people more directly and personally than a poorly run local agency. Federal democracy, with dozens of full-time reporters watching it, well-run offices in every town and well-tested checks and balances, is often going to be more democratic and responsive than anything at a lower level. Localized governments, in fact, can be corrupt, undemocratic and remote in ways that big, central governments often aren't -- not always, but it can happen."
FULL STORY: Time to Halt the Speeding "Local" Motive
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
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Even Edmonton Wants Single Staircase Buildings
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