1. ECO481* – Should there even be a vote? [Name]
Prop. 400 (AZ) – Overturn CFV Zoning (2000)
[Name]
Thematic Statement
Story Summary
After 3 years of analysis the Forest Service agreed to swap forest land near the GCNP boundary for privately held properties throughout the forest.
Given that there is an inherent conflict between the principle of liberty and the mechanism of democracy, what limitations might/should be placed on the democratic process in order to enhance individual freedom and liberty?
Effects on Property Rights
Effects of the Vote
Public Choice Issues
Citizen vote overturned Forest Service decision (and county BoS).
Vote preserved the existing private property arrangements.
Vote denied the granting of economic benefits by the Forest Service.
Deal is not a “public good.”
CFV does not solve a “market failure.”
The NF and NPS are ill-suited for business development.
The NF has distorted incentives.
Who decides consolidation is a priority?
Process excludes opponents.
Municipal parties.
Businesses that are affected.
Process benefits special interests.
A case of “bootleggers & Baptists.”
Narrow window for public comment.
Gov’t exploitation on land values.
How Markets Decide
Firms bid for resources.
Market participants accept market risk.
This particular development would better serve the public by being in the park, near the rim.
What Will Promote Economic Freedom?
Forest Service lands should be open to competitive bidding for their use. The FS should not have to power to make these kinds of decisions affecting economic outcomes.
*Public Choice Theory; Dr. Dennis Foster
W.A. Franke College of Business
The W. A. Franke College of Business, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ 86011