Even in ordinary times, and especially during times of emergency, no single organization has all the power, resources, or authority required to solve a public problem. Right now, local governments are hard at work developing community-specific responses in keeping with … Read more

As discussed in a previous post, local governments have broad authority to appropriate monies to private entities (including nonprofits, corporations, associations, and individuals). The monies, however, must be expended by the private entities only on projects, services, or activities that … Read more

A city contracts with a private company to collect solid waste within the city. If not for this contract, city employees would carry out this function. The only connection between the city and the company is the contract. It’s a … Read more