Understanding Fiscal Impact Analyses

47 min

A fiscal impact analysis can be an important tool for estimating the effect of a development or a land-use change on the costs and revenues of local governments serving the development. This course will explore the various elements of a fiscal impact analysis, particularly as it relates to residential projects. Participants will gain a general understanding of the core terms and techniques of fiscal impact analysis, why and when to perform a fiscal impact analysis, and how to explain the findings of a fiscal impact analysis.

In This Course

Introduction

Todd Poole introduces the course.

2 min
What is a Fiscal Impact Analysis?

This chapter provides an introductory definition of fiscal impact analysis. We will also examine the importance of the fiscal impact analysis process to planners.

8 min
Core Terms and Techniques, Part 1

This chapter reviews core terms, including a comparison of the Per Capita Multiplier Method and the Case Study Method.

8 min
Core Terms and Techniques, Part 2

This chapter reviews and compares the following fiscal impact analysis techniques: Service Standard Method, Comparable City Method, Proportional Evaluation Method, and Employment Anticipation Method.

12 min
Explaining Findings and Addressing Criticism

This chapter reviews the typical criticisms of fiscal impact analysis (e.g., impact on schools, service costs, or local taxes) and recommends strategies for explaining findings to elected officials and residents.

16 min
Key Takeaways

This chapter summarizes key takeaways and lessons from the course.

4 min

Published 2016

Todd J. Poole

Instructor

Todd Poole is president, founder, and managing principal of 4ward Planning Inc., with more than 24 years of economic development experience, both as a private sector consultant and a public sector practitioner.