Economics of State and Local Government:
?Raimondo's book fills a gap in the literature for both academics and practitioners. The economics of state and local government has been thoroughly explored on a piecemeal or topical basis, particularly on the finance and taxation side (e.g., Local Government Finance, ed. by John E. Peterson and Dennis R. Strachota, 1991). However, there are relatively few comprehensive studies, and only one textbook (Ronald C. Fisher's State and Local Public Finance, (1988). Thus Raimondo's work is a welcome addition, reflecting extensive experience in both government and academia. Any book in this area is somewhat idiosyncratic, and this volume is no exception. The author chooses to address the regional economies and progresses from there to private markets, the role of government, and fiscal federalism. As in most books in this area, expenditures get less attention than the revenue side, but there are two good expenditure chapters. A must for students of state and local public finance at all levels; accessible to general readers as well.?-Choice--This text refers to theHardcoveredition.