Dollery, Brian E., and Lorenzo Robotti, eds. The Theory and Practice of Local Government Reform.

• Author: Antwi-Boasiako, Kwame Badu
• Position: Book review

Dollery, Brian E., and Lorenzo Robotti, eds. The Theory and Practice of Local Government Reform. Cheltenham, UK: Edward Elgar Publishing Limited, 2008. 270 pages. Cloth, $130.00.

To the extent to which this book is truly a global work about "the theory and practice of local government reform" is debatable. However, there can be no doubt that it is a superb contribution to the understanding of theory and pragmatic approach to local government reform within selected developed countries.

Case studies in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, New Zealand, and Spain make up the second part of the book (chapters 7-13), helping the reader to understand the first part (chapters 1-6), which deals with theories of local government as a whole. One of the strengths of this book is how the models introduced are discussed in real-world situations, making it applicable regarding local government. Equally praiseworthy, where possible, mathematical equations and figures are used to help simplify what might be seen as complex concepts.

Dollery and Robotti never lose sight of the theme of blending theory and practice throughout the book. Apart from discussing existing models, three new theories (stylized facts, descriptive, and conceptual) are formulated in local government reform, which help the reader identify alternative explanations, despite the complexities of municipal governance and reforms (pp. 27-52). It has been argued that formulation of a theory must include significant elements to establish a common trend for analysis. The authors incorporate other elements that pertain to local government, such as economics, decentralization, geography, and population size, to solidify new theories. The method of providing public goods and services varies from country to country. The deeper theoretical understanding of decentralization provided here helps the reader appreciate the authors' attempt to provide multiple ways of assessing local government reforms with the tools made available in this book. They help distinguish between various types of structural changes in local government by not limiting reforms (changes) to mere administrative restructuring but also encompassing optimal jurisdiction, population size, and provision of services by municipalities.

The chronological presentation of decentralization and the budgetary processes associated with reforms across the various countries offered as case studies cement the lack of consensus in the...