Rusk says that the “little box” structure of local government “impedes meaningful collaboration on key issues like anti-sprawl land use planning and zoning; ‘fair share’ affordable, mixed income housing; tax base and revenue sharing; economic development initiatives;” and other shared services.

This report seeks to understand how tax deferments in York County relate to opportunity zones and how they are used for economic development.

Postindustrial cities experience unique struggles with fiscal health. This report looks at how areas in Pennsylvania’s Third Federal Reserve District have been impacted by deindustrialization and provides examples of how municipalities have responded.

This report tracks the involvement of York County’s aging population in the community, including contributions to the local economy, civic engagement, and philanthropy.

This report shares the most recent ALICE data for Pennsylvania. It provides a snapshot of the state’s economic conditions and explains why the COVID-19 pandemic has brought about intense financial stress to Pennsylvania families.

This report measures the number of York County households considered to be Asset Limited, Income Constrained, and Employed and outlines the areas most cost-burdensome. These households earn more than the federal poverty level but less than the basic cost of living.

Since the 90s, tax burdens have grown for all municipalities. The report analyzes the impact of Act 47 which lays out the state’s responsibility to assist municipalities experiencing severe financial difficulties to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of its citizens. They find that participation has little effect on a municipality’s fiscal situation.

York County Stakeholders establish a plan for the next 10 years which aims to increase the number of women and minority-owned businesses; close income gaps; support local art and recreation; decrease the number of ALICE households; expand access to broadband Internet; and attract employers that offer high-paying employment.

Rusk explains the impact of suburban sprawl and concentrated poverty on the quality of life of York County residents. He provides recommendations for solutions, including mixed-income housing, county resource-sharing, and urban revival.