Dynamics in Rural Policy Development: The Uniqueness of County Government

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1980

Publication Title

Public Administration Review

Volume

40

Issue

1

First Page

24

Last Page

28

Abstract

The article focuses on the ability of county governments in handling the public problems related to rapid system change. According to the article, increases in the socioeconomic affluence of counties do not stimulate greater countenance among county officials for administrative reorganization. County officials dislike structural mechanisms which centralize authority. Wealthier counties depend less on non-county revenues, but at the same time acquire larger amounts of federal aid than poorer units. Socioeconomic development in municipalities often creates pressures for administrative professionalism. Roads and operating costs constitute the major items in budgets, indicating that poorer counties are distinctly present-oriented in their policy activity. Socioeconomic factors have an impact only on governmental activity. The article suggests that grants-in-aid must be used with some sensitivity. In order to avoid the situation where the rich become richer, and the poor become poorer, this aid might be more valuable if redirected to the very poorest counties.

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