Aesthetic Democracy: Negotiating Visual Norms for Wind Energy Development

Feb 12, 2007, 4:00-5:30 pm EST
Betty Ford Classroom (1110 Weill Hall) at the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy
Abstract: New investments in 'green' power are essential for mitigating the impacts of global climate change. While wind power is now considered both technologically mature and economically feasible, it faces bitter opposition from local communities on the grounds that wind turbines amount to visual pollution. This presentation will examine the role that visual imagery is playing in policy debates about the siting of new wind farms.
Ford School

CLOSUP Seminars: The Effect of School Choice on College and Crime

Mar 11, 2009, 12:00-1:00 pm EDT
Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy
David Deming will present his study of the implementation of an open enrollment public school choice plan in Charlotte-Mecklenburg school district (CMS) in 2002. Students were guaranteed admission to their home school but could apply to as many as 3 other public schools in the district. Where demand for slots exceeded supply, assignment was determined by randomized lottery. Deming finds significant benefits of school choice for students who come from neighborhoods that are assigned to very low performing schools.
Ford School
CLOSUP Lecture Series

Mortgage Credit and Racial Segregation

Nov 1, 2010, 11:30 am-1:00 pm EDT
Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy
Abstract: This paper shows that the mortgage credit boom has significantly affected urban and school racial segregation from 1995 to 2007. We develop a model of urban segregation with credit constraints that shows that easier credit can either increase or decrease segregation, depending on the race of the marginal consumer who benefits from the expansion of credit. We then use school demographics from 1995 to 2007, matched to a national comprehensive dataset of mortgage originations, to document the link between credit supply and schools' racial demographics.
Ford School

Panel Presentation: The Role of Urban Food Retail in Detroit's Economic Development and Revitalization

Oct 21, 2009, 4:00-5:30 pm EDT
Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy
Watch video. Abstract This panel discussion will present a number of different approaches to urban food retail in the city of Detroit, including: a program that touches on the conventional grocery industry; a program to develop grocery sector entrepreneurs; a new model for community grocery stores; and alternative formats/vehicles for urban residents to get fresh food. Mo
Ford School