BIO

Denise Perez is a first-generation student from Miami, Florida. Denise's academic journey reflects her passion for legal, economic, and historical knowledge, evident in her pursuit of a dual degree in Psychology and Political Science. Denise's experience in research as an undergraduate research assistant and a mentor in the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program underscores her commitment to seizing opportunities for personal and professional development. With steadfast dedication to contributing meaningfully to the political science community, she is determined to make a lasting impact on the political science, legal field, and beyond.

Exploring the Nexus between County Government Structure and Fiscal Dynamics

Abstract

Resource allocation and economic considerations heavily influence the programs and legislative policies that policymakers prioritize. This research analyzes the dynamic relationship between governmental structures and public revenue by examining the relationship between county government form and county-level revenue and expenditures in Florida. Employing regression analysis, this study examines government data gathered through individual county websites and fiscal data collected through centralized databases in Florida, as well as public government financial reports for the 2019 fiscal year. The primary focus is on the key variables that shape county legislature, including the form of government (Traditional Commission, Commission-Administrative, or Commission-Executive), the number of commissioners, the number of districts, and election rules (whether commissioners were elected At-Large or Single Member). Our investigation reveals notable patterns regarding the allocation of funds and the influence of governmental forms on expenditure dynamics. Specifically, counties with a commission-manager government exhibit a trend of lower funding for transportation compared to those with traditional or executive forms. Additionally, an increase in the number of county commissioners correlates with elevated expenditures per capita, particularly in transportation costs and overall revenue. These findings underscore the need for policymakers to consider the implications of different governmental forms on resource allocation and public policy priorities. Ultimately, this research contributes to our understanding of governance strategies and facilitates evidence-based decision making in public administration.

Keywords: Counties, Goverment Expenditures, Local Government, County Government