Public Administration Commons^™

Slides: Community Forest Project: Grand Lake Stream, Maine, Steve Keith

Community-Owned Forests: Possibilities, Experiences, and Lessons Learned (June 16-19)

Presenter: Steve Keith, Farm Cove Community Forest, Downeast, ME

62 slides

Slides: Changes In Timberland Ownership: The New Hampshire Experience, Paul Doscher

Community-Owned Forests: Possibilities, Experiences, and Lessons Learned (June 16-19)

Presenter: Paul Doscher, Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests, Concord, NH

20 slides

Slides: Coolbough Natural Areas: Community Forest, Brooks Township, Michigan, Dale Block

Community-Owned Forests: Possibilities, Experiences, and Lessons Learned (June 16-19)

Presenter: Dale Block, Brooks Township Forest, MI

35 slides

Slides: Community Ownership And Management Of Productive Forestland: Building Natural And Social Capital, Keith Bisson, Rodger Krussman

Community-Owned Forests: Possibilities, Experiences, and Lessons Learned (June 16-19)

Presenters: Keith Bisson, Quebec-Labrador Foundation, and Rodger Krussman, The Trust for Public Land

20 slides

Agenda: Community-Owned Forests: Possibilities, Experiences, And Lessons Learned, Communities Committee, University Of Montana. School Of Forestry. Bolle Center For People And Forests, Wilderness Society (U.S.), Nature Conservancy Of Montana, Swan Ecosystem Center, Northwest Connections, Blackfoot Challenge, Flathead Economic Policy Center, Pinchot Institute For Conservation, American Forests, University Of Colorado Boulder. Natural Resources Law Center

Community-Owned Forests: Possibilities, Experiences, and Lessons Learned (June 16-19)

Community-owned forests may be the answer for some U.S. communities now confronting unanticipated and unwanted large scale land use changes – changes that could irrevocably change their local landscapes and quality of life. Across the country, millions of acres of private forest lands are being put up for sale as the forest products companies who own them find other, cheaper sources of supply. If, as is likely, purchasers divide and convert the forests to residential or other development uses, nearby communities face losing the critical economic, environmental, recreational, social, cultural, and aesthetic values and benefits those forests have traditionally provided. …

A Leadership Model For Roman Catholic Social Service Agencies, Richard A. Ketrow

Dissertations

U.S. federal and state governments involve faith-based agencies in public administration by contracting with them to implement social service programs. How can Catholic social service agencies effectively compete in procuring these social service contracts and securing the program funds? To answer this question,a leadership model applicable to Catholic social service agencies was proposed. Four strategy constructs, evolving from the literature review, comprised theleadership model. The constructs providing a framework for the study were: performing service process reviews, utilizing a commitment to religious faith, entering valuable collaborations, and adhering to a consistent mission. Data were collected using a mail survey to …

Impacts Of The Tax Shift Of 1981: An Examination Of Nevada Local Governments, Philip F. Stoeckinger

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

The 1981 Nevada Legislature reduced property tax rates in what is known as the “Tax Shift”, whereby cities and counties received less property tax revenue and more sales tax revenue. Nevada made this change to mirror California Proposition 13, along with over forty states nationwide. Furthermore, the property tax rates that could be levied by local governments were “capped.” Nevada also became the only state to depreciate improvements (buildings) in determining the value of property (Tax Topics, 2001). In doing the preceding, Nevada moved from basing its revenue structure on a stable revenue source (property tax), to an unstable revenue …

The One-Stop Permit And Plan Review Center: Three Case Studies, Kenneth John Schilling

Dissertations

This study provides a detailed description of the one-stop permit and plan review center, an organizational innovation that is being introduced in numerous U.S. cities to improve governmental performance. The change represents a streamlining of local development review and code compliance functions.

Utilizing a qualitative methodology, the research records this one-stop application's diversity of form, contrasts it with the system it replaces, explores therationale and process that led to its adoption, and enumerates its useful features. The research is based on case studies of three Midwestern cities of comparable size: Grand Rapids, Michigan; Dayton, Ohio; and Des Moines, Iowa.

On …

Study Examining A Doe Proposal To Dispose Of Mixed Low Level Waste At The Nevada Test Site Using An Alternative Landfill Design, Deborah Hart

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

The Department of Energy has set forth a proposal to use an Alternative Landfill Design (ALD) for the Mixed Low Level Waste disposal facility, in Area 5 of the Nevada Test Site in place of a traditional engineered liner for the facility. The purpose of this thesis is to examine the impasse between the DOE and the State of Nevada regarding the proposal of placing a traditional liner versus the alternative landfill design, using a case study method to provide recommendations to policy makers and the NTS CAB. This project used secondary data to evaluate, and determine the effectiveness of …

Analyzing Changes In Indiana School Finance, Steven C. Disney Jr.

All-Inclusive List of Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to analyze Indiana school superintendents' perceptions of the impact of the recent changes in Indiana school funding on local school districts. Indiana school superintendents' perceptions of whether the 2003 Budget Bill (HEA 1001) impacted school district personnel, educational programs, facilities, and transportation differently because of assessed valuation per student and student enrollment were tested. Differences in superintendents' perceptions because of years of superintendents' experience were also tested. The independent variables were defined as: 1) assessed valuation per student, 2) student enrollment, 3) superintendents' years of experience, and 4) Budget Bill HEA 1001. The dependent …

Superintendents' And School Board Presidents' Commitment To Selected Performance Components, Sandra Weaver

All-Inclusive List of Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to compare the perceptions of superintendents and school board presidents regarding their level of commitment to evaluation components on an appraisal instrument developed by the Indiana School Boards Association and Indiana Association of Public School Superintendents. Additionally, it investigated the difference between males and females on the rating of commitment to specific evaluation items. The study also examined the difference between respondents who use an annual appraisal instrument and those who do not on the rating of the level of commitment to specific evaluation components. The study reviews the superintendency from multiple facets. These …

Job Satisfaction Among United States Air Force Security Forces Personnel Post-1997 Career Field Merger, James Harrison Popphan

All-Inclusive List of Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Research was conducted to determine factors contributing to job satisfaction among US Air Force Security Forces personnel. Previous research conducted prior to major structural changes within the career field in 1997 and increased operations tempo due to the Global War on Terror was of questionable current pertinence. Job satisfaction has been shown to directly affect retention and performance. Retention is extremely important within the career field due to a personnel shortage of 8,000 troops. The current research closely followed the research design used by Michael Reiner to assess job satisfaction in the career field in 1997, and compares current findings …

Probation Violators: An Examination Of Felony Male Adult Probation Violators In The State Of Nevada, Stefanie Wilson Palacio

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

No abstract provided.

Examining The Basis For Change In Clark County Non-Conforming Zone Change Process, Was It Needed?, Maria D. Kaseko

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

This study reviews Clark County's non-conforming zone change process from 1990 to 2002. A non-conforming zone change, sometimes known as a non-conforming zone boundary amendment is a proposed request that is not within the range of residential densities and/or non-residential intensities indicated on the applicable land use plan map, master plan, or concept plan. This research explores and examines two questions raised by the Clark County's new implementation plan, which was approved in April 2003 to amend the non-conforming zone change process. 1) Clark County assumed there was a public perception that non-conforming zone changes were being approved without regard …

Strategic Partnerships In Public Service, Christine G. Springer

Public Policy and Leadership Faculty Research

Presents the process to a successful strategic partnership in public service. Importance of trust between the partners; Definition of mission, goals and objectives in the partnership; Establishment of relationship boundaries.

Streamlining The National Environmental Policy Act Reporting Requirements: A Hard Look At The Healthy Forests Initiative, Jeffrey Alan Geller

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) has implemented the Healthy Forests Initiative (HFI) (2002), which streamlines the NEPA process for proposed forest fuel reduction projects. A key question is whether the USFS’s streamlined NEPA process produces an adequate environmental document and fulfills regulatory requirements. This thesis evaluates whether the streamlined approach practiced by the USFS under the HFI satisfies the NEPA requirements. A review of four streamlined documents assesses whether these requirements are met. The following NEPA requirements in particular are explored for each project to determine whether the NEPA requirements are met: consideration of a reasonable range of alternatives to …

Public Participation As Part Of The Clark County Nonconforming Zone Change Process, Mara Weber

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

No abstract provided.

Movers And Shakers: A Qualitative Investigation On The Role Of Policy Entrepreneurs, Jeni Jenkins

McNair Scholars Research Journal

Using the theoretical concept of ‘policy entrepreneurs’ in public policy, this study draws on interview data from six key figures in a controversial city debate, to examine the impact, role, and characteristics such entrepreneurs have in policy making in city politics. This paper begins by providing an overview of public problems and the concept of policy entrepreneurs in relation to their role in the agenda setting process of policy formation. A historical summary of the case in study is then provided. Research is based on an in-depth analysis of data collected during one-on-one oral interviews in August 2004 with six …

Converting Turfgrass To Xeriscape: Evaluating Southern Nevada Water Authority’S “Water Smart Program”, Tom Hudak

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

This study evaluated the use and effectiveness of the Xeriscape Conversion program, dubbed the “Water Smart Program,” administered by the Southern Nevada Water Authority. The Conversion program is used by five water purveyors throughout Southern Nevada. Because of phenomenal growth in the area, water has become one of the most valuable resources. With its limited availability, conservation has become the logical solution to ever increasing demand. Using empirical data, effectiveness of the program was evaluated in areas such as: water savings after xeriscape conversion; maintenance savings after conversion; the influence of system design on water consumption; and the long term …

Collaboration Through Partnerships: A Review Of Six Michigan Communities, Cheryl Kay Sibilsky-Soule

Dissertations

The federal government supports the use of collaborative service planning for many federally funded programs. While there are anecdotal studies supporting community collaboration, its use has not been adequately evaluated. This study provides exploratory information regarding the relationship between successful collaboration and outcomes for children and families.

Data were collected from six Michigan communities using a survey tool sent to all members of the six community Family Coordinating Councils. The tool was designed to measure eight factors seen in successful collaboration. The respondents evaluated their own collaborative council on these eight factors.

Three of the communities were thought to be …

Factors Affecting Treatment Program Development In A Mental Health Facility Serving Prisoners, Ruby Miranda Meriweather

Dissertations

There is a paucity of literature on how treatment programs for mentally ill prisoners are developed. Federal mandates require that services to mentally ill prisoners be comparable to what is offered in the community. Planners, therefore, must find ways to provide treatment programs that produce that outcome.

This research identified the most important factors that affect treatment program development and implementation to aid planners in designing treatment programs for mentally ill prisoners. This qualitative study, based on grounded theory, used a structured interview with 61 mental health staff (psychiatrists, nurses, psychologists, social workers, and activity therapists) across three categories (Administrative, …

Cataloging The Congressional Serial Set, Aimée C. Quinn

Library Scholarship

Many librarians question the usefulness of the traditional cataloging of difficult historic sets in a time when more and more information moves either to the Internet or is digitized outright. One of the most challenging sets to catalog is the United States Congressional Serial Set, a 14,000+ (and growing) mega serial comprised of five monographic sub-series. The Congressional Serial Set is an anomaly since it is both monographic and serial in nature. This article examines the intricacies in cataloging government publications in an electronic atmosphere using one House document in the Serial Set as a guide and examines the two …

The Council-Manager Plan, Or, Managing For Results?: Profiles And Management Styles Of Eight City Managers In San Bernardino County, Leatricia Michelle Cash

Theses Digitization Project

The primary purpose of this study is to examine professional city management in San Bernardino County cities functioning under the council-manager form of government, and to determine whether they are using the fundamental principals of "Managing for Results" as set by the criteria in the GPP report.

Managerial Reforms Within The United States Government, Jacqueline Michelle Townsend

Theses Digitization Project

This research project examines Presidential and Congressional attempts to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the United States government. It describes prior reform efforts and then focuses on President George W. Bush's management agenda.

The Politics Of Katrina In New Orleans: A View From Ground Zero, Christine L. Day, Marc R. Rosenblum

Political Science Faculty Publications

What is New Orleans like today? What will it take to return the city to some semblance of normalcy? Stunned by the events and revelations of governmental incompetence since Katrina, we review Katrina's aftermath and chime in on current policy debates about the city’s future. Our love for New Orleans may compromise our objectivity, but we find scholarly inspiration in three excellent articles in the last issue of The Forum.

Organizational Structures And State Departments Of Transportation, Candice Y. Wallace

MPA/MPP/MPFM Capstone Projects

No executive summary.

Survey Of Physical Agility Testing And Officer Fitness Levels In Kentucky Police Departments, Charles Nathan Brown

MPA/MPP/MPFM Capstone Projects

Statement of Problem

HB 455 brought about the 1998 Omnibus Crime Act which created the Police Officer Professional Standards;16 requirements to becoming a peace officer in Kentucky. Five of the standards defined minimum physical agility standards. Though physical agility testing has had a history of controversy, validation studies have been created to support this practice. Though officers are testing for a level of physical agility upon entering the police officer field in Kentucky, no statewide policy has been passed to ensure that this level be maintained. This study examines the presence of physical agility testing in Kentucky police departments and …

Organized Labor's Influence On Local Elections: A Case History Of Snohomish County, Washington, Jonathan Stuart Burr

Theses and Dissertations

Candidates seeking public office must build a strong political following to be successful. This applies at national, state, and even local levels. The support generated for a candidate's campaign can be attributed to factors such as personal characteristics, political following, political resources, and endorsements. This analysis focuses on union endorsements in relation to other political endorsements. The case study of the race for Snohomish County Council in District Five illuminates the connection between endorsements, monetary contributions, and voting behavior. Union political coordinators were interviewed and results from the primary and general election 2005 were compiled. The findings support previous studies …

Unlv Magazine, Lori Bachand, Regina Barcolas, Barbara Cloud, Holly Ivy De Vore, Gian Galassi, Cayrn Key, Jennifer Robison, Gillian Silver, Jason Vaughan, John F. Gallagher, Cate Weeks, Diane Russell

UNLV Magazine

No abstract provided.

Perceptions And Practices Of Indiana School Superintendents In Response To The Problem Of Sick Building Syndrome, Janet Elaine Hiller

All-Inclusive List of Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to compare the perceptions and practices of Indiana public school superintendents who represent two groups, those who had experienced building exposure to mold and those who had not experienced building exposure to mold. Seventy-five Indiana public school superintendents responded to the opinionnaire with a return rate of 81.5%. Results indicate that: (1) Indiana public school superintendents who had not experienced building exposure to mold had higher mean values than those who had experienced building exposure to mold relative to closing only classrooms affected by mold and to relocating staff and students exposed to mold; …