ISSUE 130 | October 28, 2021

The Institute is an economic research and applied research and consulting group that provides customized client solutions and strategies to facilitate decision making and planning that enhances growth, impact, and sustainability for organizations.

From Around the Region and the State Economic and Policy News

Geography contributes to inequities by school district across PA It is common knowledge that student enrollment in public school depends primarily on residential address. This disparate system means zip code determines quality of education. Property taxes largely fund public schools in the state, so the best education is typically found in wealthier communities.   Click here to read the full article Pittsburgh organizations give new meaning to community development  Community organizations in one Pittsburgh neighborhood have plans to build their own grocery store. The neighborhood does not currently have a full service grocer, so the partners will rehabilitate an abandoned building in town to house a 20,000-square foot store. The project has attracted the interest of the city’s redevelopment authority as well as private developers.  Click here to read the full article Erie may impose storm water management fee Erie city council is considering collection of a stormwater management fee to support maintenance, repair, and improvement of the system. The size of each personal or commercial property would determine cost. Similar fees to service aging systems are either under consideration or already in place in other Pennsylvania cities.  Click here to read the full article

In the Spotlight: Regionalization offers potential to reduce inequities in education. The Institute's Executive Director recently penned an op-ed for RealClear Policy, emphasizing the value of regional collaboration over competition. Click here to read more

From Around the Nation and the Globe Economic and Policy News

Innovative programs develop downtowns and grow local manufacturers  Five cities across the U.S. have established a variety of programs targeting small manufacturers. Education and resources provided range from rezoning and space, to shared equipment and tools, to financial and technical support. All programs have reported successful outcomes.   Click here to read the full article California launches strategy to develop digital equity  The California Emerging Technology Fund (CETF) covers not only availability, but affordability of service and equipment. The initiative also includes training for equipment use, provided in appropriate languages and at appropriate grade levels. Community-based organizations serve as conduit for delivery of messaging to vulnerable populations.  Click here to read the full article Public banking offers another tool for municipalities to expand services Private financial institutions are designed to maximize investor profit. City-owned banks, on the other hand, are open to citizen oversight. They allow municipalities to use profits from their deposits to reinvest in public benefit projects.   Click here to read the full article

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