Municipal Affairs & Economic Development Research -

M U N I C I P A L A F F A I R S & E C O N O M I C D E V E L O P M E N T

Even though news cycles do not pay as much attention to municipal policies, many of the most important policy decisions that affect Canadians and their families most directly are made at the municipal level. AIMS research on Municipal Affairs focuses on identifying the policy choices that help cities and towns thrive and develop economically and which ones lead to stagnation and decline.

This research area also deals with one of the most important objectives of public policy – to enable Economic Development and growth. Given the fiscal challenges we face in our region, and the social challenges flowing from rates of poverty and unemployment that are above the national average, the need for pro-growth economic policy in Atlantic Canada is especially urgent.

POLICY PAPERS & OP-ED COMMENTARIES

Separatism, Nova Scotia style

Separatism, Nova Scotia style. by Don Cayo -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Nova Scotians were Canada’s original separatists. Way back in 1867, with the ink barely dry on the deal to create Canada, old Joe Howe was already changing his tune. He turned his considerable powers of oratory and persuasion to trying to undo ...

March 22, 1999 / Don Cayo / Op-ed, Urban Affairs/Local Government

On rural failures and rural futures

On rural failures and rural futures by Don Cayo -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Our small, small towns are better off than your small, small towns. I say that with three decades standing as an adopted Maritimer, but one with roots in the rural West. I say it with sadness and affection, not a ...

September 9, 1998 / Don Cayo / Op-ed, Urban Affairs/Local Government

A vibrant city builds wealth

A vibrant city by Don Cayo -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- How much of the Maritimes long-term regional economic failure stems from our failure to develop a real city? That question weighed heavy on my mind last week during a heady five days I spent in Toronto sopping up Ideas that Matter at a ...

October 27, 1997 / Don Cayo / Op-ed, Urban Affairs/Local Government

Mediocre municipalities hold themselves back

Mediocre municipalities hold themselves back. by Don Cayo -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A great many cities, towns and villages in this region believe in themselves. Conventional wisdom has it that new businesses, both large and small, would surely come flocking in if only local folks could find a way to get the word ...

September 9, 1997 / Don Cayo / Op-ed, Urban Affairs/Local Government

Stunted cities, stunted growth

Stunted cities, stunted growth. by Don Cayo -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- How much of the Maritimes long-term economic weakness stems from the region’s failure to develop a real city? I ask myself that question often, but never moreso than when I read -- or re-read -- Jane Jacobs’ insightful musings. Jacobs, if you ...

October 31, 1996 / Don Cayo / Op-ed, Urban Affairs/Local Government

MEDIA MENTIONS

AIMS Makes A Difference In Atlantic Canada

Municipal Affairs & Economic Development Research