Possible Planning Roles for Regional Government: A Survey of City Planning Directors in California

Abstract

A survey of California city planning directors finds about half to be supportive of regional government. Support is higher in the San Francisco Bay area than in the Los Angeles area. Planning directors strongly favor a role for regional government in “system-maintenance” functions and in environmental protection, but most oppose its involvement in “life-style” services and local growth regulations. Many question the ability of regional governments to solve problems or respond effectively to local issues. As in studies of citizens' preferences, the predictors of support for regional government involve perceived self-interest and a willingness to give up local control. The article points out the implications for states seeking to include regional governance in growth management.