URST 4101 - Metropolitan Finance

Institution:

Washington University in St Louis

Subject:

Description:

This course is an interdisciplinary examination of fiscal policies in metropolitan regions and the related public policies that can make them better or worse places for living and working. A particular focus is on the financial structures and arrangements-both public and private-that support or hinder quality of life in urban spaces. Core topics of study include the potential impact of decentralized governments on metropolitan economic development, determination of optimal arrangements for sharing fiscal responsibilities among levels of government, evaluation of local revenue and expenditure decisions, and assessment of prospects and options for intergovernmental fiscal reform. The course is consistent in its approach to policy. Drawing on literature in sociology, education, public finance, community development, political economy, and other related fields, the course readings and experiences explore how fiscal policies can and do affect urban dwellers and their well-being. This is a departure from many public finance courses. Such an approach leads to very different questions: How do liquor zoning regulations influence minority and nonminority children in schools? Should whites be paid to move into minority neighborhoods or vice versa? This approach to the study of metropolitan finance puts an emphasis on topics such as child care, public transportation, minimum wage, housing codes, street behavior, homelessness, incarceration, alcohol, sports stadiums, illicit drugs, tax abatements, water service, garbage collection, schools, higher education, sprawl, and technological change, with consideration given to political, institutional, and cultural factors. Students are required to attend hearings, meetings, and other relevant functions associated with the development of public financial policy. Prerequisites: URST 299 and either junior standing or permission of the instructor.

Credits:

3.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.wustl.edu

Phone Number:

(314) 935-5000

Regional Accreditation:

North Central Association of Colleges and Schools

Calendar System:

Semester

The Course Profile information is provided and updated by third parties including the respective institutions. While the institutions are able to update their information at any time, the information is not independently validated, and no party associated with this website can accept responsibility for its accuracy.