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Why are American cities increas–
ingly unlivable and nearly bank–
rupt? This article
will
explain the
causes,
and give remedies
for
reviv ing
our
dying cities.
by
Gary Alexander
11
11
"MONEY
isn't
everything," goes an old cliché. But
cities are finding that even though
it
isn't the
answer
to
all problems, money IS mighty impor–
tant. In American cities there is a curious connection
between government, money and the unlivable character
of its streets.
Many cities are going bankrupt. Lack of funds is
irritating already inflamed social problems. Yet, because
of the American cities' governmental structure, getting
adequate n;sources is like cramming an elephant through
the eye of a needle.
Thus, today's cities face genuine financia! needs which
go unanswered. Why? What put cities in a fjnancial vise?
ls there any way for the vise to
be
loosened ?
Roots of Urban Bankruptcy
After World War II, millions of impoverished farm
workers followed the pied piper of higher salaries into