Product Description: Boon or blight? Ann Bowman and Michael Pagano define "vacant land" broadly, to include everything from brownfields (environmentally contaminated land) through trashed lots and abandoned buildings to greenspace (parks, community gardens, etc...read more

This version of the top-selling State and Local Government retains the unique thematic and historical approach of the comprehensive text in a condensed format. Essentials provides explanations of the structure of state and local government, as well as their functions in the current political scene. Descriptions of public policy appear at relevant points throughout the text and are integrated into discussions to help foster student interest and involvement in state and local politics and policy.A brief and cost-effective alternative, Essentials can be used in conjunction with outside readings or with an American government survey.Coverage includes state and 2004 election results.Chapter 2, "Federalism and the States," includes a discussion of the Bush administration's approach to federalism, a strengthened and updated discussion of tribal governments, and a consideration of the challenges homeland security poses to the states.Up-to-date topics include challenges states face as they deal with budget shortfalls and federal mandates, women in state and local politics, and the impact technology has on state and local government and citizen participation.Web resources in every chapter offer students the latest information on using the Internet to research state and local governments.

Product Description: The book's theme of increased capacity and responsiveness of state and local government conveys excitement about politics at the grassroots level and is pro public service.

Product Description: As American cities seek to revitalize their urban centers and surrounding region, planners and politicians often look for quick-fix schemes. But cities that have achieved success, Michael Pagano and Ann Bowman claim, have done so through an alliance of politics and economics focused upon a long-term vision of what the city can be...read more

Product Description: Throughout the 1990s public demand for a fundamental shift in the relationship between government and its citizens has intensified. In response, a "new governance" model has emerged, emphasizing decreased federal control in favor of intergovernmental collaboration and increased involvement of state, local, and private agencies...read more