Delivering Community Benefits through Economic Development: A Guide for Elected and Appointed Officials
Type
Policy Brief or Report
Year
2014
Level
City or Town, County
State(s)
All States
Policy Areas
Civil Rights, Community Development, Democracy & Governance, Economic Justice, Energy, Environment & Natural Resources, Housing, Public Safety, Public Spaces, Transportation & Mobility
Major economic development projects and infrastructure investment can present both tremendous opportunities and significant threats for communities and residents. Using a community benefits approach, local government officials have powerful tools available to ensure that these projects provide the greatest social, economic and environmental benefits while also not harming surrounding neighborhoods. In short, community benefits are assets available through economic development that meet real community needs. Examples include community access to living wage jobs, affordable housing, health and community services and open space. This guide describes what local governments can do to help advance community benefits.