This paper examines city-suburban fiscal disparities and shows that state tax policies may be exacerbating urban fiscal conditions.
Despite recent signs of economic and fiscal recovery, many U.S. central cities continue to struggle with declines or slow growth in population and employment, higher tax burdens, lower quality public services, and poorer performing schools compared to their suburban neighbors. This paper examines the factors that have led to fiscal distress in central cities, and fiscal disparities between cities and suburbs, in three states California, New York and Wisconsin. The paper suggests that further devolution of federal programs to states, like welfare reform, may worsen cities' fiscal problems.
Thanks to Center on Urban and Metropolitan Policy
FULL STORY: Lost in the Balance: How State Policies Affect the Fiscal Health of Cities

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Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
City of Moorpark
City of Tustin
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions