Ellen Perlman was a GOVERNING staff writer and technology columnist.
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How Many Jobs Does a Playground Make?
"When it comes to jump-starting the economy, a playground isn't going to cut it," according to a story in the Virginian Pilot today.
That's what U.S. Housing and Urban Development officials told the Norfolk City Council. The city wanted to spend $50,000 in stimulus funds on a playground, but the feds said that really wouldn't do much for job creation.
So the council voted instead to put the $50,000 toward drainage improvements in
the South Suffolk neighborhood. (Not all that fun to play in, really)
Then it moved the same amount of money out of the drainage project and into swings and slides. "In other words, you take money out of your left pocket and put it in your right pocket," Vice Mayor Curtis Milteer Sr. said.
Hmm, i s this how it's going down around the country? Other examples out there of projects being rejected for funding or of cities or states moving the money around?
Twitter: @governing
Written and compiled by staff writers and editors, GOVERNING View is an on-the-ground, and sometimes behind-the-scenes, look at the topics we're covering in print and online. From notes on what's up in statehouses, county courthouses and city halls, to encounters with people, places and things, GOVERNING View is a window into the side of state and local government you don't always see.
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