Urban Public Finance In Canada

Considers such issues as the effect of local government policies on migration, the optimal size of cities, tax and expenditure capitalization, the economics of intergovernmental transfers, tax exporting and tax competition.

The market-leading book takes its readers to the frontiers of current research,yet remains accessible to undergraduates.Although it draws upon the latest research, the book never loses sight of the reality it is supposed to describe, always drawing the links between economic analysis and current political issues.

Michael Piva's book traces the history of Canadian public debt from before 1840 to Confederation, with particular focus on the Canadian government's policies and management in relation to that debt. This work is the first study of public finance that goes well beyond an analysis of Canadian public accounts. Piva presents a clear and thoughtful interpretation of facts and events that has some application even for modern-day deficit financing and GST.

Globalization and the information revolution have highlighted the catalytic role of local governments for improving economic and social outcomes at the local level as well as growing the national economy by enhancing international competitiveness. This comprehensive account of local public finance and economics brings together principles and better practices for improving quality and access of local public services provision. The volume covers assignment of responsibilities; jurisdictional design; local service delivery; local regulation; local self-financing options such as income, sales, property and environmental taxation, user charges and fees; infrastructure finance options; and higher order government financing of local governments. The treatment is non-technical and suitable for a wide variety of audiences including scholars, instructors, students, media, policy advisers and practitioners.