Joey Nolasco

Date of Award

2014

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Public Administration (MPA)

Abstract

Up until their dissolution in 2012, redevelopment agencies (RDAs) played a vital role in California as a tool for local governments to revitalize blighted communities, fund affordable housing, and invest in public infrastructure. In the absence of RDAs, local governments have been left struggling to find new ways to finance economic development. A frequently discussed but uncommon alternative has been the use of infrastructure financing districts (IFDs). This paper provides an in-depth review of affordable housing and economic development activities in the City of Salinas and explores the possibility of establishing an IFD as a means to fill in the gap left behind by the dissolved Salinas Redevelopment Agency. In order to determine whether an IFD is a viable replacement tool, data was collected from key informant interviews with the Department of Finance, City of Salinas, and other local governments. Due to the unique circumstances of the two established IFDs and an analysis of the data collected, this study indicates that there is not enough data to determine whether an IFD can help the City of Salinas replace the Salinas Redevelopment in promoting affordable housing and economic development. The study did however provide insight into other potential tools. Based on the results and findings of this study, it is recommended that the City of Salinas create a Community Enrichment Committee to further explore IFDs and other replacement tools and to advocate for legislation to change IFD law. It is also recommended that the City of Salinas create a special fund for redevelopment funds that are now being redirected to the City. An analysis of the committee, a year after its establishment, is also recommended to examine its effectiveness.

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