In each case a reasoned judgment is exacted from resource managers, as refined in the fires of public deliberation. As analysts we need to champion alternative views to help decision-makers and the public understand the varied and legitimate worldviews held by those who hold a stake in decision outcomes. When financial information is displayed, I recommend not developing comprehensive present net value or benefit-cost indices. Rather, use dollars as factors for comparing one alternative with another. Recognize different sources of funds.
Funds derived from a permitee or concessionaire are different from appropriated dollars.
Recognize different uses of funds. Dollars received by a permitee or concessionaire are different from receipts to the treasury. Display costs and receipts separately. Use discount rates only to suggest that dollars have other uses that could generate return. This is true for tax dollars, dollars from a permittee or concessionaire, or dollars volunteered by an interest group.