Research paper will focus on your analysis of a public finance program in terms of defining issues, problems, constraints, and considerations impacting the program's ability to meet its goals and objectives. locate and review a county or municipal level budget document (Note: NOT state or federal), and select a specific program for analysis. .

You must address Item Numbers 1 to 5

1. The Problem

• What is the problem and its causes?
• Are specific groups affected?
• How are they affected?
• Identify characteristics of the group
• How large and significant is the problem now?
• What are the likely future dimensions of the problem?

2. Objectives and Evaluation Criteria Define the fundamental purposes and benefits of the program. Identify the evaluation criteria by which progress toward meeting the program objectives should be

3. Current Activities and Agencies Involved Identify all relevant groups involved in attempting to deal with the problem. Identify what each group is doing, including costs and impacts. Activities, costs, and benefits should be projected into the

4. Other Significant Factors Cite the other major factors, including political realities that affect the problem. Identify unusual resources, timing limitations, or other factors of significance. 5. Alternatives Describe alternative programs designed to meet the problem and the major characteristics of each.