Teaching tax increment finance: A policy simulation approach

ABSTRACT

This article presents a policy simulation related to the logistics of establishing a Tax Increment Finance (TIF) District. It has been developed to be flexible in its delivery, and it is designed as a framework in which the complexity can be adjusted to meet the needs and knowledge level of the classroom in which it is being administered. The goals of the simulation are to convey a basic understanding of how tax increment financing can operate in the context of a local government economic development plan and provide the participants a simulated experience that requires planning, forecasting, and negotiation. The simulation stresses the collaborative nature of implementing sound public policy initiatives. Master of Public Administration or upper level undergraduate courses in budgeting, finance, public-private partnerships, or similar public management classes are ideal courses for using the simulation

KEYWORDS:

• Parking deck
• simulation
• tax increment finance
• teaching

Additional information

Notes on contributors

G. Jason Jolley

G. Jason Jolley is an associate professor and MPA Director at the Voinovich School of Leadership and Public Affairs at Ohio University. His research interests include economic development, entrepreneurship, public finance, and public-private partnerships.

William B. Klatt

William B. Klatt is a graduate of the MPA program in the Voinovich School of Leadership and Public Affairs at Ohio University. His background is in nonprofit management and development. His interests include public-private partnerships, social entrepreneurship, and worker cooperatives.