H B conference on ■ ^ | ALTERNATIVE ■ ®J| state and local PUBLIC POLICIES

May 1977 Editor : Barbara Bick

IN T H IS ISSUE... "Minnesota Farm Loan Fund A Model Act" (p. 2) by Katherine Lerza With the average age of farmers at 50 and the com­ petitive entry level of financing at about $50,000, there is a real question of who the next generation of farmers will be. "Penal Reform: A Matter of W ill" (p. 4) by S. Brian Willson and Andy Hall Beginning in the mid-60's, the most massive wave of prison and jail construction in history continues. "Criminal Justice Tied to Economic Justice" (p. 5) by Richard Hongisto The most peaceful countries in the world are the most libertarian . . . and have the greatest equitable dis­ tribution of wealth. mm A N « l CONFERENCE SET FOR D E N V E R (p. 7-10) Conference Agenda reflects the critical importance of Carter administration's new domestic policy and pro­ grams to state and local governments. "Alternative Politics in the 8ig Sky County" (p. 12) by Ora J. Halvorson Montana is a target for everyone. But one strong woman carries the issues forward. "Conservatives Renew interest in State and Local Politics" (p. 13) by Lee Webb Money and resources are pouring in to support local Washington D.C. City Councilmember Julius Hobson, innovative legislator, conservative campaigns. social activist nonpareil, dead of leukemia, (sss sîasy psga 3) Minnesota jobs for unemployed Nuclear Safely Bill Massachusetts youth in the Farm Loan Fund A strong new anti-nuclear next year. The jobs would be bill was introduced into the in state promoted and fi­ Massachusetts House by Rep nanced construction projects Richard Roche, Entitled "An including schools, hospitals, — A Model Act Act Relating to Land Use and recreation facilities, day care Nuclear Fission Power Plants centers, residential housing, By Catherine Lerza than that which Minnesota Safety", HB 1200 would lift mass transit, alternative faces. As Susan Sechler and the limits of insurance energy, and marine services In an effort to encourage Susan DeMarco of the liability in case of nuclear ac­ and recycling. Funds for the new farmers to purchase agri­ Agribusiness Accountability cidents and require that those King bill would come from cultural land, Minnesota has Project explained in a recent suffering from nuclear ac­ increases in the taxes on enacted a Family Farm article in THE ELEMENTS, cidents be compensated fully stocks and bonds over the Security Act (see Newsletter "With the average age of far­ for their losses. Under the amount of $150,000, a raise 4) which guarantees bank mers at 50 and the com­ Price-Anderson Act of 1956 in the tax of property assets loans to farmers seeking to petitive entry level of finan­ passed by the U.S. Congress over the amount of $250,000, buy land. The cost of prime cing for new farmers at about there is a top limit of $560 and a raise in the tax of cor­ midwestern farm land has $50,000, there is a real million on the amount that porate profits over the tripled over the last five question of who the next utilities would be liable for in amount of $100,000. years, with land in Minnesota generation of farmers will case of a nuclear accident. now selling for about $1200 be." Minnesota's new fund is Another part of the bill BaUered Women Bill to $1400 per acre. This has an attempt to give small, in­ would create a "nuclear Ad­ made the initial investment in dividual farmers a chance to visory Group" to study the Women beaten by their farm land prohibitive to most compete with capital-rich in­ safety of various nuclear husbands or lovers would, potential farmers. stitutions, corporations and power plant operations, and along with victims of fires The new Minnesota law, banks, for example, who will would have the authority, if and disasters, get priorities in passed in April 1976 and put otherwise be the only buyers the industry wasn't properly emergency public housing if a into operation this past of farm land in the future. protecting the populace of the bill filed recently by February, deals with this Garry says that he receives’ state, to gradually restrict the Massachusetts State Rep dilemma by creating a Family two or three information power plants operations. Elaine Noble is passed. "A lot Farm Security Board which requests about the new •of women will not leave their administers a $10-million loan homes even if they are in­ program every week and that Economic Agenda fund that will guarantee 90% "other states are watching us credibly battered, unless they of bank loans to farmers who closely." He believes that Economic issues promise to know there is a bed for them somewhere," Noble said. might not otherwise be other Midwestern states may be the hottest question con­ eligible for a loan. When a enact similar legislation in the fronting the Massachusetts 'They are victims of a farmer goes to a bank for a next couple of years, depen­ Legislature this year. domestic disaster" she added, loan to purchase farm land ding on the success of this Numerous progressive bills and should be given the same and the bank decides the ap­ program. The only real have been introduced, many aid as victims of natural plicant is not a good credit problem the fund faces is a concerned with banking and disasters. risk without additional finan­ technical one : no nationally- finance, including S. 29 which cial help from the state fund, chartered banks can par­ creates a State Bank for the Fed "Lifeline" Bill the credit application is sent ticipate in the program deposit of state funds; S. 49 State Utility Regulatory to a seven-member Farm because of legal problems which creates an Economic Commissions would be Security Board. The Board, arising from the regulations Development Bank; H. 1363 required to enact "Lifeline" made up of four farmers, two under which the fund which provides for the issuing electric rates if the "Lifeline bankers and an agricultural operates. Until the state of state and municipal bonds Rate Act of 1977", introduced extension agent, reviews the receives a positive decision in small denominations; H. in Congress by Rep William application and determines from the office of the Comp­ 1754 which links deposits of Lehman of Florida wins ap­ whether or not to guarantee troller of the Currency in the state funds to local com­ proval. Under Congressman the loan. Treasury Department, munity investment by the in­ Lehman's bill, state According to Dan Garry, nationally-chartered banks dividual banks; and H. 3141 regulatory commissions director of the program, the will not take part in the loan which establishes a state auto would have to establish the Board puts no age, dollar or program, although state- insurance company. quantity of kilowatt hours acre limits on loans. Each chartered banks will. Two bills are aimed at which is the subsistence level loan is dealt with on an in­ Senator Hubert Humphrey creating jobs. S. 51, filed by for residential use in each dividual basis, Garry ex­ has introduced into the U.S. Sen. Jack Backman and Rep. state. The rate charged for plained, and "repayability is Senate the Family Farm John Businger, would that amount would have to the only limitation." The Security Act of 1977 (S.598) establish the right of every. be the lowest charged to any Board has so far approved to create a federal program Massachusetts resident to class of consumer, thus four loans, denied two and, modelled after the Minnesota meaningful work and would eliminating the breaks pres­ Garry said, “I couldn't even plan. provide $30 million of public ently enjoyed by industrial guess how many applications service jobs funded through and other large users. Copies are on the way." Catherine Lerza is a an expanded lottery system of H.R. 469 car. be obtained Other agricultural states Washington writer and other sources. A bill by from Rep. William Lehman, are faced with land inflation specializing in food and Rep. Mel King, H. 3253, U.S. House of Represen­ as serious, and even worse, agricultural policies would provide some 90,000 tatives, D.C. 20515.

2 Julius Hobson : Champion and Legislator for Human Rights

By Barbara Bick

A singular legislative legacy was left to the people of the Hobson was a founder of the District of Columbia District of Columbia when City Councilmember Julius Statehood party, which began as a small and seemingly Hobson died of leukemia on March 23, 1977. The nine bills unrealistic group but which today is one of the three major which he submitted to the council in January included a parties of the District. The Home Rule Charter that measure that would make Washington D.C. a city/state, a Congress approved prohibits any one party from holding Youth Employment Act, an Initiative and Referendum Act, more than two of the four At-Large seats. Hobson was and a Non-Criminal Police Surveillance Act. elected twice, representing the Statehood Party, to fill one of the At Large seats. His D.C. Statehood Act would Washington D.C., which was granted a limited form of provide a process for Washington to be admitted into the self-rule only three years ago, has probably the most ac­ Union on an equal footing with the other states. True home tivist city council in the U.S. The 13 member council num­ rule, according to the Statehood Party, would have to see bers 11 blacks and five women. But every councilmember the end of the congressional veto. It would also mean has a staunch history in the civil rights, peace, poverty voting representation in both houses of Congress. That can and/or reform Democrat movements. No councilperson, be accomplished either through a constitutional amend­ however, equals the remarkable record of Hobson. ment, which is "too much of a hassle," or through an act of Congress, which is the basis for Hobson's bill. Hobson's Hobson's national reputation goes back to the 195Q's foreword states : "Changes in our local government that when he led the successful desegregation of road houses and take place under the present home rule structure are only gas stations on Route 40. This was the infamous stretch of colonial reforms. Half freedom is half slavery and we highway where black diplomats made international should not accept it. Partial self-government is no answer. headlines when they were unable to get gas or food service Equality is not divisible." during trips between their UN missions in New York and their embassies in Washington. Hobson was also widely Another piece of Hobson's legislative agenda is the known for his early and long leadership in the peace Initiative and Referendum Act, which would amend the movement, as well as in police and transportation issues Home Rule Charter to permit a voter approved initiative that went far beyond the limits of D.C. In 1969 he filed a measure to become the equivalent of an Act passed by the major suit that accused the federal government of bias Council and signed by the Mayor. In addition, Hobson in­ against blacks, women, and Mexican Americans. troduced the "Recall of Elected Officials Amendment Act." The stated purpose of the bill declares, "In a democracy an But mostly Hobson was known as the pressing, abrasive, elected officer serves at the will of the people. When an of­ deeply respected gadfly of the nation's capitol. His solid ficial ceases to be responsive to that will, there should be achievements on behalf of the city's people, before the ad- adequate legal remedies for his removal. A recall procedure vant of electoral politics in the District, were diverse. As is such a solution." President of CORE Hobson ran more than 80 picket lines on approximately 120 retail stores in downtown D.C., Hobson's "Educational Accountability Act of 1977" calls resulting in the initial employment over a four-year period for the Board of Education to design and implement of 5,000 black citizens. His benchmark court case in 1967 minimum standards of student competency for promotion resulted in the outlawing of the rigid track system in the and graduation. It is a commitment to young people that newly desegregated school system. public education can and will provide them with the reading, writing, communication and mathematical skills to In part, surely, due to Hobson's agitation and court ac­ effectively compete in today's world. Through provisions of tions against the school system, Congress in 1968 permited the bill, citizens and taxpayers would also know how well election of school board members — the first D.C. local students are learning such "demonstrated competencies." elections since the previous century. Hobson won a seat on the school board with the largest plurality. Then in 1971 The "Non Criminal Police Surveillance Act of 1977" is the District of Columbia got, first, the right to elect a non­ designed to protect the basic rights of privacy, freedom of voting delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives and, expression and association, and the redress of grievances. finally, in 1973 the right to elect its own city council. The Act establishes specific safeguards against police sur­ However, the Home Rule Charter, which went into effect veillance activities aimed at the lawful political activities of in 1975, is only partial self-rule since Congress retains a veto power over Council legislation. Continued on next page

3 Criminal Justice Tied to Hobson Economic fustic© By Richard Hongisto

individuals and organizations in D.C. It specifically outlines In every such poll, crime We have a system of the type of police intelligence activities that are illegal — shows up as the first or criminal justice because we such as unauthorized wiretapping, inciting people to engage second priority on people's don't have a system of in unlawful activities or interfering with the lawful ac­ minds. If countries were rated distributive justice. tivities of individuals or organizations. by their peacefulness, One study, across the specifically their murder rate, whole U.S., showed that for the Scandinavian countries 1% increases in unem­ Hobson was given six months to live — in 1971 — when would lead with a murder ployment sustained over a five he was told that he had multiple myeloma, a spinal cancer. rate of one-half of 1 % per year period, there'll be a Although the illness shrank him into a wheelchair, Hobson 100,000 per year. In England, 1.9% increase in cardio­ lived, worked and fought for five more years. This it is IVj or 2%, and in vascular diseases, 1.9% in­ January, Hobson called a press conference to say his doc­ Western Europe, about 5%. crease in cirrhosis of the liver Below that is the U.S. with a from alcohol, 3.4% in state tors had once again given him six months to live because of murder rate nationally of mental hospital admissions, acute leukemia. about 8 %. 4 % in prison admissions, A traditional law en­ 4.1% in suicide, and 5 .7% in In the next three months Hobson worked hard on his forcement answer to that homocide. Crime is a symp- legislative agenda which is now his last testament. Copies problem would be, "per­ ton of a problem that is an missiveness." In those coun­ economic problem above all. of the nine bills can be obtained from the National Con­ tries with a low murder rate, Can traditional law en­ ference office or from his Statehood Party replacement on how would you measure per­ forcement methods combat the City Council, Hilda Mason. missiveness? Let's say a coun­ the social ravages induced by try that legalized por­ a sick political economy that On Hobson's office wall there was a poster quoting nography or maybe a doesn't meet the needs of its Frederick Douglass : country that has own people? decriminalized prostitution, Recently, the Law En­ the way England and Scan­ forcement Administration Those who profess to favor freedom, yet deprecate dinavia have. revealed that for several years agitation, are men who want crops without plowing The point is that the most it had pumped millions and the ground, they want rain without thunder and light­ peaceful countries in the millions of dollars into a ning; they want the ocean without the awful roar of world are the most liber­ crash effort, a tour de force, its many waters. tarian. So much for the to fight crime with collective wisdom of our law technology and money. The Hobson said of himself, enforcement leaders. Their result? Crime went up argument on permissiveness dramatically, over 100% in Ideologically I consider myself a Marxist . . . I believe only reveals their collective all jurisdictions. in socialism ; I believe what we're fighting over is the ignorance. We have organized our Those countries with the political economy around the distribution of goods and services and the production least crime are also the most pursuit and accumulation of of them; and I believe that everybody on earth has socialized, i.e. they have the wealth instead of taking care the inalienable right to share in them.'' greatest equitable distribution of ourselves. Now we are of wealth for all their faced with a dilemma. Do we In his book "Captive Capital : Colonial Life in Modern citizens. want to have economic de- .- Washington" published in 1974, Sam Smith, editor of a We're told that in the U.S. mocracy, equalize the distri­ local newspaper, wrote about Hobson, we should accept our myriad bution of wealth, and protect problems because the free en­ ourselves from the predatory terprise system maintains tendencies of money-hungry With such a record, one might have expected Julius economic incentive. But we money-makers? Or are we Hobson to emerge as a national civil rights leader. His have been surpassed by a going to be content with high record of achievement was as impressive as the best of number of industrialized levels of unemployment to them and if he had wished to he could have drifted countries. Sweden and Swit­ keep people in line, with lots into the more comfortable world of semi-acceptance zerland can each claim to be of prisoners, lots of jails, dots enjoyed by (these leaders) . . . a world achieved by more successful with a per of police, and of course with capita GNP 20% above ours. a steady erosion of our civil exchanging effectiveness for respectability and We have also been surpassed liberties? progress for power. Hobson eschewed power and he by Norway and West Ger­ refused respectability. But Hobson changed the face of many. Relative to modern Washington as much as any single person. achievement in the rest of the Richard Hongisto is the world, the U.S. economy no Sheriff of San Francisco longer delivers the goods. County. The above was ex­ America's poor are no longer cerpted from a speech he gave middle class abroad. They are at the Santa Barbara, CA. poor. Conference on Economic

4 [Penal Reform : a Matter of Will Community Organizers By S. Brian Willson and Andy Hall ACORN, a community organization which works for political and economic The present repressive com­ penal facilities? There are two bail, by granting freedom on democracy for its low to ponents of crime control, clear factors. The first is the personal bond or promise of moderate income mem­ initiated in the mid-1960's, function of the crime control supervision, would greatly bership, has openings for continues to expand and industry as a growth market decrease the cost of main­ organizers in six southern become more deeply en­ which now employs over a taining detainees. Increasing states. Issues range from trenched. An integral feature million persons in ap­ and vesting good time, ex­ neighborhood problems to of that regime is the m ost. proximately 50,000 agencies. pediting parole, and im­ utility rates, unfair taxes, massive wave of prison and The other is the need of the plementing other forms of redlining, etc. Long hours, jail construction in the non-poor to maintain sanc­ "rehabilitative" releases low pay. Qnlÿ those world's history. tion over those held hostage would shorten the number of mobile and interested in The proposed 1978.Federal within class boundaries due prison person-days served. social change need apply. Budget includes $346,615,000 to disparities in opportunity, Pardons or clemency for most Contact: Carolyn Carr, for the Bureau of Prisons. Of wealth, income and influence. offenders within a certain ACORN, 523 W. 15th St., that, $67,588,000 would be What is equally clear is that number of months of parole Little Sock, AR. 72202 used to plan or construct new incarceration holds no eligibility would also decrease (501) 376-7151 prisons. promise of crime reduction, the need- for more prison These construction funds promotion of social order, spaces. are in addition to a recent community tranquility, or In the long term a drastic Development $22 million supplemental criminal justice. reduction in our dependence Planner request to construct a new upon prisons can be achieved Given the public clamor for youth prison at Ray Brook, by educating the public to un­ Responsible for plan­ "get tough" policies what N.Y. which would first house derstand the large amount of ning, development and alternatives can be found in 1980 Winter Olympics prison intake which is evaluation of new dty, county, or state athletes. irrelevant to the offense (or work/training program legislatures? Certainly no In addition the Bureau of non-heinous) and thus cost- designed to increase job jurisdiction can afford the Prisons is currently con­ defective to the taxpayer. capture rate of Hartford literal pursuit of the get- structing new youth prisons Probation subsidies would in­ residents. Program is being tough/lock 'em up craze. The in Memphis, TE., Bastrop, duce jurisdictions to retain of­ developed jointly by most practical and morally TX., and Talladega, AL., and fenders in their communities school system, business correct stance is to refuse to an adult prison in Otisville, where they would be required community, city govern­ submit to the pressures for N.Y. A 1976 draft federal to make restitution to vic­ ment, labor unions, and building more jails and prison system report "Long tims, pay fines to the com­ community groups. Job in­ prisons. This would provide Range Facility Analysis" munity, and be engaged in cludes business planning time for pursuing systemic describes plans to build 10 mediation of disputes. The for small business ventures alternatives which are not more prisons and to open two decriminalization of con­ operated by the school only more just but are also more camps — in addition to sensual acts between and system. Salary $18,000. more cost-effective. If all of those listed above. among adults, as well as most Begins July 1, 1977. Send removal and isolation were U.S. history shows that as property offenses, would letter of intent, resume, list reserved only for the heinous dependence on prisons has in­ reduce the numbers of per­ of employer references, offender whose actions have creased, the rate of reported sons in prisons, jails and and writing samples, to grievously threatened public crime has grown steadily as a training schools. Another Office of Personnel and safety, the 500,000 prison broad social response. If overdue reform is substantial Labor Relations, Hartford beds already in existence anything, the use of prisons cuts in the length of penal Public Schools, 249 High throughout the U.S. would be seems to produce, not reduce sanctions. St., Hartford, CT 06103. more than sufficient. By local crime. The entirely destructive (203) 566-6056. Deadline: legislative initiative on a What then lies behind the policy of dependence upon 4 P.M ., June 3. proactive model, rather than continuing drive for more prisons must be abandoned. the customary reactive New public punishment posture, a progressive public Urban Planner policies must reflect the idea policy could be developed Democracy, Feb. 18-20. A that punishment and Master of Urban Plan­ that would no longer be sub­ full report, with transcripts resolution of social problems ning April graduate from servient to judiciary and of speeches by Tom Hayden, must be borne by the entire University of Michigan other pressures. Cesar Chavez, and U.S. Rep. community rather than the looking for full time Ron Dellums can be obtained In the short run, emphasis individual alone. position. Skills include from THE CAMPAIGNER, should be placed upon prac­ legal aspects of planning, P.O. Box 22699, San Fran­ tices which shorten the J. Brian Willson and Andy public speaking, audio­ cisco, CA 94122, In addition average number of days spent Hall are coordinators of the visual presentations, some a 159-page set of "Working in jail or prison. This would National Moratorium on statistical analysis and for­ Papers on Economic free existing beds and Prison Construction. For tran programming. Democracy”, prepared for the preclude the need for more information or to Resume and references conference, is available for acquisition or construction of receive their bulletins and supplied upon request. $10 fi'om the California new spaces to relieve tem­ JERICHO, their newsletter, Contact Bob Tessier, 424 Public Policy Center, 304 S. porary population pressures. contact NMPC, 3106 Mt. N. State St., Ann Arbor, Broadway, §224, Los Angeles Expediting release of pre-trial Pleasant St., N.W., D.C. MI 48104 90013. detainees too poor to afford 20010. (202) 483-7080.

5 IN T¥2 CONFERENCE What's Happening?

Soglin Reelected Mayor A lurid campaign of distortion around the rent control measure was used to defeat the BCA candidates. Over Good news first. Paul Soglin was reelected on April 5 to $150,000 was known to have come into Berkeley from real a third term as mayor of Madison, WI. In a primary con­ estate interests all over California. According to Coun- test seven weeks earlier, Soglin had finished behind con­ cilmember Loni Hancock, who along with BCA Coun- servative Alderman Anthony Amato. In that race Sogiin's cilmember John Denton was not up for reelection, it was student and leftist base had been eroded by the third place similar to the November campaigns waged against finish of Socialist Party candidate, Alderman Michael Proposition 15, the nuclear initiative, and Proposition 14, Sack. However, following the primary most of the left, the farm worker initiative. In that election massive amounts together with formal support from COPE and a big ab­ of money from all over the country came into California, sentee ballot push in the university area, combined to give leaving local coalitions without adequate resources to com­ Soglin a 29,000 vote margin and 64% of the turnout. bat the fear and hate campaigns. Soglin attributed his victory to the return of the "golden On the evening before the election many homes in coalition" of labor, students, and professionals which first Berkeley had two and three pieces of hate literature. put him in the mayor's office in 1973, as well as his social Material supporting the Democratic Club candidates war­ and economic development program begun in the first two ned voters that they would be "robbed" by a BCA majority terms. Soglin had previously served five years on the "determined to rape the city treasury, foment antisocial at­ Madison City Council and was known as a student activist. titudes and wreak financial vengeance upon responsible An issue raised in Amato's conservative campaign was citizens." Sogiin's trip to Cuba during his second term as mayor. Ying Lee Kelley, one of the BCA leaders, who was run­ Immediately after his campaign victory, Soglin hosted a ning for a second four-year term, was defeated by about two-day energy conservation conference. The first day was 300 votes. aimed at Madison's 40 biggest commercial and business users with workshops that considered highly technical and computerized conservation systems. The second day Santa Barbara Coalition Drubbed featured workshops aimed at the ordinary citizen and discussed alternative energy sources, such as solar, the A progressive and environmental coalition which had correct way to use wood-burning furnaces and fireplaces, held a four to three majority on the Santa Barbara CA. as well as home appliance, home lighting, and water con­ City Council for the past four years lost two of their four servation. For information about the conference, write to seats in the last March 8 city elections. The victory went to Jim Rowen, Assistant to the Mayor, City Hall, Madison. a heavily financed slate backed by developers, real estate interests and other local business groups. The irony of the election results is that Proposition A, supporting recently adopted measures on population limitations, won over­ Berkeley Citizens Action Slate Trounced whelmingly but two of the three candidates which sup­ ported Proposition A were defeated and two of the three And now, for the bad news. The long-term organizing ef­ candidates who most opposed Proposition A were elected. fort of the progressive coalition in Berkeley, CA., which The incumbent mayor, an opponent of the progressive has been a model of citizen accountability and par­ coalition, was reelected by a scant 34 votes. ticipation, received a severe set-back when it's entire slate The coalition analysis of these contradictory electorial for city council was defeated April 19. At stake were föur results is that voters are concerned about uncontrolled council seats that could have shifted the balance of power growth and environmental issues but they are also anxious away from the Democratic Club which has run Berkeley about economic factors such as property taxes. Hence they for years with the support of Republicans and business in­ tend to "balance out" their votes. According to professor terests. The critical issue in the contest was a rent control Dick Flacks, Santa Barbara activist, the coalition is going initiative, supported by many community organizations as forward despite their defeat. They are discussing ways to well as the Citizens Action group. The race was so close improve their organizing capacity and hope to be able to that an election eve poll taken by the opposition indicated employ full-time staff in the near future. that the rent control measure was within a 1% chance of passing, and that the council race was too close to call. More on page 11

6 CONFERENCE/Æernatii/e Stale and 7/8/9/10 July Denver, Colorado Local Public Policies

Two years have past since the beginning of the National Conference on Alternative State and Local Public Policies. The hundreds of public officials, scholars and community activists who have worked with the Conference during that 3rd Annual National period are eloquent testimony of the enormous resources available to making state and local government a major in­ Conference strument for social change in America. Our many con­ ferences, publications, and task forces have been part of, Host Committee and in turn have helped to create, the movement to in­ crease the role of state and local government in progressive political thinking. No longer do most modern Americans Chairman: Regis Groff, Assistant Minority Leader, see state and local governments as just passive providers of sewers, schools and highways. Instead they are seen as in­ State Senator struments for dealing with problems of citizen par­ Roy Römer, State Treasurer ticipation, social planning, regulation of business, neigh­ Kathy Oatis, Colorado Committee on Political Educa­ borhood decay, and the distribution of income and power. tion, AFL-CIO A new provocative and forward looking agenda is Cathy Donahue, City Council, Denver emerging for state and local government. Michael Henry, President, Capitol Hill United Neigh­ The National Conference has correctly seen its role as en­ borhoods couraging communication about specifics of innovative Bob Scarlett, Steelworkers Committee on Political programs among public officials and others throughout the Education country. We have concentrated our resources and work Dennis Gallagher, State Senator around the questions of what specific alternative policies Nancy Dick, State Representative for states, counties and cities can be implemented now. Our third annual conference in Denver, CO., will carry Rubin Valdez, Minority Leader, State Representative that work forward in a new and challenging way. We hope Paul Danish, City Council, Boulder that you will join with us in that work at Denver July 7 Polly Baca-Barragan, State Representative through 10, 1977. Tom Hale, San Mateo County Commissioner John Stencil, President, Rocky Mountain Farmers' Lee W ebb Union Director, National Conference Michael Kinsley, Pitkin County Commissioner

7 — CONFERENCE/Æernatire

7/8/9/10 JUl

THURSDAY, 7 JULY 1977 The Public Balance Sheet: Criteria for Evaluation c 6:00 P.M. / REGISTRATION OPENS Public Investment Colorado Women's College, Houston Fine Arts Feminist Issues: Legislative Strategies at the Stat Building, Corner Quebec and Montview Blvd. and Local Level (Reception, Cash Bar) 12:00 /LUNCH 8:00 P.M. / OPENING SESSION Welcoming Remarks 1:30 P.M. / PLENARY SESSION : Regis Groff, Assistant Minority Leader, Colorado "An Alternative Energy Policy: Implications for Cil State Senate Chairman, Conference Host Com­ ies and States" mittee Mary O'Halloran, State Representative, Iowa Chick St. Croix, Organizing Director, Oil, Barry Commoner, Washington University, St Chemical and Atomic Workers, Colorado Louis, Missouri Pat Roach, City Council, Dayton, Ohio 3:45 P.M. / WORKSHOPS 8:30P.M . / PLENARY: Federal Energy Policy : Power Lost, Power Gained? "Democratic Visions: New Directions for Public Introduction to State and Local Tax Policy Policy" Intervention Strategies: How to Establish Publi Panel— Control of Investment Monies Lee Webb, Director, Conference/Alternative State The Defense Budget: Impact on State and Local Gov and Local Public Policies ernments Loni Hancock, City Council, Berkeley, California How to Run an Issue-Oriented Campaign: A Work Byron Dorgan, State Tax Commissioner, North shop for Potential Candidates Dakota The Politics of Water and Natural Resources David Smith, Professor, University of Massachu­ Being an Effective Staff Person setts, Boston Strategy in the Legislature: The Experience of thi NDP

6 :00 P.M. BUFFET DINNER FRIDAY, 8 JULY 1977 9:00 A.M. / PLENARY SESSION: "Building A Political Movement" 7:30 P.M. / PLENARY SESSION Introductions: Mickey Flacks, Chairperson, Affirmative Action Commission, Santa Barbara, California Barbara Bick, Editor, National Conference News letter Ron Dellums, U.S. House of Representatives, Cali­ fornia Paul Soglin, Mayor, Madison, Wisconsin; Na­ tional Conference Coordinating Committee "Towards a Progressive Federalism" 10:15 A.M. / WORKSHOPS Leone! Castillo, Director, U.S. Immigration anc Introduction to Development Finance Naturalization Service; former Comptroller, Houston, Texas Affirmative Action Strategies for State and Local Government Sam Brown, Director, ACTION; former Treas­ Taxation of Natural Resource Development urer, Colorado; National Conference Coordi­ nating Committee Budgeting and Finance for Public Officials Effective Lobbying for Progressive Policies 9:00 P.M. / ENTERTAINMENT late and Local Public Policies—

977 Denver, Colorado

SATURDAY, 9 JULY 1977 6:00 P.M. / RECEPTION — CASH BAR 9:00 A.M. / PLENARY SESSION "Life With the Democrats: The Impact of the New 7:00 P.M. / BUFFET DINNER Administration on State and Local Policies" 8:15 P.M. / PLENARY SESSION Bill Winpisinger, President, International Associa­ Introductions: tion of Machinists Kandra Hahn, Court Clerk, Lincoln, Nebraska Nicholas Carbone, City Council, Hartford, Con­ Si Galperin, State Senate, West Virginia necticut Bennie Thompson, Mayor, Bolton Mississippi; "Public Involvement in Natural Resource Develop­ Chairman, Mississippi Conference of Black ment" Mayors Sidney Green, Minister of Mines, Resources and Barney Frank, State Representative, Boston, Environmental Management, Province of Massachusetts Manitoba; National Vice-President, Canadian John Alschuler, Assistant City Manager, Hartford, New Democratic Party Connecticut 10:00 P. M. / PARTY - MUSIC — DANCE 10:45 A.M. / WORKSHOPS Women in the Workforce: Implications for Public Policies SUNDAY, 10 JULY 1977 ' Basic Tax Enforcement 9:00 A.M. / WORKSHOPS Democratic Management of Public Agencies Economic Democracy ; Issues and Strategies History of Municipal Reform Movements The California Experience : Tom Hayden What's Wrong with American Agriculture Controlling Urban Growth Federal Strategies that Support Community Econom­ Property Taxes ic Development State Strategies to Protect the Family Farm Creative Program Alternatives at the Local Level: Manpower Monies, Tax Strategies and Regulatory 11:00 A.M. / PLENARY SESSION Agencies, and their Role in Economic Develop­ Introductions : ment Kathy Oatis, Colorado Committee on Political Ed­ The Future of Public Employee Unions ucation, AFL-CIO Marion Barry, City Council, Washington, D.C. 12:30P.M. / LUNCH "How to Build Coalitions for Progressive Policies" 2:00 P.M. / REGIONAL MEETINGS Ruth Yannatta, Candidate for State Assembly, Los Angeles, California 4:00 P.M. / WORKSHOPS Ira Arlook, Director, Ohio Public Interest Cam­ Review of Alternative Economic Policies: Bank of paign North Dakota, Link Deposits, CDFCs, Communi­ Ron Asta, Former Chairman, Pima County Board ty Development Corporations and the NDP Expe­ of Supervisors, Tucson, Arizona rience Dennis Gallagher, State Representative, Denver, Speculation, Farmland Preservation and Controlling Colorado Growth Base Building for Electoral Action 12:30 P.M. / CONCLUDING REMARKS - Counter Budgeting and Whistle Blowing REPORTS AND PLANS How to Work as a Progressive Minority in a Legisla­ Lee Webb, Director, Conference/Alternative State tive Body and Local Public Policies Cçmmunity Control of Economic Development Paul Soglin, Chairman, National Conference Co­ Local Political Organization ordinating Committee

9 3RD ANNUAL NATIONAL CONFERENCE

Colorado Women's College Denver, Colroado July 7 -10,1977

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Registration Fee: Meals — Housing: Pre-registration fee (for participants pre-registered by July 1) $20 Single and double rooms with private baths are available in dormi­ Registration fee (for participants who register at the conference $25 tories on campus. Registration fee includes a copy of New Directions for State and Lo­ Rates include breakfast, lunch and dinner each day, served in col­ cal Public Policies: A Resource Manual for Public Officials and Po­ lege dining room : litical Activists and participation in all conference sessions, work­ Single — $17 per person, per night shops and entertainment. Double — $15 per person, per night Partial registration fee scholarships are available. Please make ar­ Rates for room only : rangements with Ann Beaudry. Single — $12 per person, per night Double — $10 per person, per night Please use the form below to register for the Conference and to Tickets for individual meals will be available on a limited basis. reserve housing accomodations. Return to :

National Conference 1901 Que Street Washington, D.C. 20009

THIRD ANNUAL NATIONAL CONFERENCE — REGISTRATION

NAME ______

POSITION OR ORGANIZATION ______

ADDRESS______

PHONE: HOME______WORK______

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PREREGISTRATION FEE $20.00 HOUSING (Checkone): With Three Meals Included : Single — #______Nights at $17 = Double — §______Nights at $15 =

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If you will be unable to attend the conference, but would like a copy of New Directions for State and Local Policies: A Resource Manual for Public Officials and Political Activists which is being prepared for the conference, please indicate below :

PRICE: $7.50 ____ check enclosed Number of copies ordered ____ please bill me

1 0 What's Happening? Continued . c

Amherst Coalition Wins Partial Victory Burlage, Rodberg and Bick, along with six other former IPS Fellows are setting up the Public Resource Center A coalition of university students, tenants, and en­ which will undertake research and education on the use of vironmentalists won one-third of the seats in the April 5 human and natural resources in the public interest. All of race for the 240-seat Town Meeting in Amherst, MA. Over the new Center associates are members of the IPS Union of one half of the residential units in the town of 23,000 are Fellows and Faculty which was formed in the late Fall of rental, many to students. The Amherst Tenants Association 1976. The subsequent attempt to bargain collectively with was perhaps the strongest organized group behind the the IPS co-Directors and Board of Trustees failed and a set­ progressive coalition which is preparing strategy to support tlement was negotiated that included a sufficient grant to es­ numerous warrants they put on the Town Meeting Agenda. tablish the new institution. Articles include mandating the Selectmen to actively op­ pose the planned nuclear power plant in Montague, M A; The work of the PRC will stress two themes : com m u ­ rent control; establishment of a town administered fund for nity federalism, which is seen as the linking together of rental security deposits to end the landlords' abuses of democratic communities of various kinds in struggle for deposits they hold; removal of gender from description of justice and liberation; and political ecology, which is the all town offices and jobs; and opposition to the diversion bringing together of political power, economic democracy of water from the nearby Connecticut River to supply and decent respect for the integrity of the biosphere. future water needs for the City of Boston. The new Center associates are committed to the develop­ ment of alternative public programs which support the best of Northeast Cities Follow-up progressive local movement toward a new national agenda. Some will continue to work with the National Conference. The Northeast Cities Conference, held in Hartford, CT. Specifically, the PRC will analyze and report on the uses of last December has generated a great deal of interest. A con­ public lands and mineral resources; on the networks of coop­ ference continuations committee met, March 26, to review erative agriculture; on ways in which new religious commu­ several proposals for new projects and to consider a draft nities can receive spiritual and economic sustenance; on the fund raising plan. community-based economic development of cities and re­ Work in four areas were agreed upon: to publish a gions toward full employment; and on community-based na­ regional newsletter which would focus on critical analyses tional health programs. of alternative legislation which conferees have worked on, to hold a series of educational sub-regional conferences, Others in the PRC include Arthur Waskow, Jim Ridge­ and to convene working groups to develop model new way, Charlotte Bunch, Frank Smith, Bettina Connor and proposals in high priority areas. It was hoped that these Cynthia Washington. For more information, write to Public new proposals would serve as the basis for a series of issue Resource Center, 1747 Connecticut Ave., N.W., Washing­ meetings. It was also agreed to operate a technical assistan­ ton D.C. 20009 (202) 483-7040. ce clearinghouse in Hartford that would respond to the growing volume of requests. A fund raising plan to support this level of activity was Executive Director is Sought also approved. for National Conference

New Public Resource Center Started The National Conference on Alternative State and Local Public Policies is looking for an Executive Three of the people most involved in conceptualizing and Director, who will serve as the primary administrator carrying through the work of the National Conference of the organization, directly responsible to the Con­ during the past 2Vi years are separating from the Institute ference's Coordinating Committee. The Executive for Policy Studies (IPS), the institution which provided sup­ Director should have substantial experience in state port for the Conference in its initial phase. Barbara Bick and local government, a demonstrated interest in in­ and IPS Fellows Robb Burlage and Leonard Rodberg were novative public policy, and significant administrative part of the group which first undertook to survery political experience, including publications and fund raising. activists who had developed state and local electoral The Executive Director's salary shall be in the $16,000 constituencies. They, along with IPS co-Director Marcus plus range. Raskin and Goddard professor Lee Webb, a long-time For more information, contact Lee Webb, National associate and Trustee of IPS, provided much of the staff Director, 1901 Q St., N.W. D.C. 20009. work which led to the first conference in Madison, WI. in June 1975.

11 Sy Ora J. Halvorson

The art of shaping public policy can be subtle or from this activity. This will become more of an issue between abrasive. 1 have failed more often than succeeded, but I nations as time goes on and policy must be established. hope my legacy is that somewhere a spark was kindled The problems and loss of property that result from because I tried. For many years, as a housewife, I had the flooding valley floors was highlighted in our area during a time and opportunity to make small waves in my com­ flash flood brought on by cloud seeding. When the Federal munity of Kalispell, Montana. But when I saw a need that I Flood-Plain Insurance Act was not applied in our valley it could fill and ran for the State Legislature, I was roundly became clear that delineation changes were needed. This defeated. Facing the truth that I was a middle aged, became a battle royal. But my bill is now used as a model uneducated, ordinary housewife, I knew I would need to for flood-plain areas in other states. earn the respect and votes for my next round. Montana is a target for everyone. We have the wealth of I started by going to school, after having raised my children and seeing them through their academic years. The vast land and huge deposits of minerals; we are the head­ hardest part was to overlook the ridicule of my peers, as waters of man's most important resource, water. Arabs and well as that of the 18 year old freshmen I was joining. Co­ Japanese, Canadians and Australians are buying our land, ed dorms, pot, hard drugs, different customs and ethnic New York bankers our minerals, and Washington, Califor­ backgrounds, new geographical areas, all were important in nia, New Mexico, Nevada and Arizona want our water. The world wants our timber. developing the political depth that I needed. I managed a BA degree from Goddard College, a Business College Poor Montana. The European fad for men's high beaver diploma, and a LaSalle Extension Law diploma. hats destroyed our hunting; the buffalo were exterminated Then I went back to politics and ran for delegate to the in less than a dozen years because of the demand for the Constitutional Convention. I lost again. Everyone thought I skins. The final indignity of the bleached bones being sent wouldn't have the temerity to run again, but I did — and to market in the east, instead of being allowed to fertilize won. and revitalize the plains, was the buffalo's ultimate fate. My first year in the Montana House of Representatives Gold was mined and gone within a decade. The forests was mostly a learning process and was marred by the fact were harvested and not replenished. The range was that I had just nursed my diabetic son through his terminal homesteaded and the grass destroyed. Drought and wind illness. The next year I was ready. I proposed inheritance blew the top soil into the Dakotas, and gas and oil were tax reform and a capital gains tax on the speculative sale of shipped east until the resources were gone. land. But the realtors were too strong for me. Today, Coal is King, and land is beckoning the greedy Next election 1 led the ticket. Again I tackled the and water is exciting envy in the needy. speculative sale of land and again was defeated. But with Last election it was very apparent that Montana was the energy crisis a new issue surfaced. Coal was becoming targeted by the John Birch group. They ran one candidate increasingly valuable. The year for U.S. Senator, one for the before I had advocated taxing Western Congressional District, coal on a percentage of the price and one for Governor. They ran and lost. On my second attempt, one against me and in every other we won and M ontana now taxes race in the state that they could coal at 30% of the price at the fill. mine mouth. I also sponsored a W e are only 750,000 people. referendum to have half of the C an we survive? Have we the coal taxes invested for the future courage and fortitude to save our and this is now law. beauty and wisely dispense our My inheritance tax again resources? Will we become van­ failed. However, the Uniform quished like the Indian groveling Probate Code passed, as did on our reserved areas? Will the many of the Equal Rights laws for gambling interests debauch our women and minorities that I sup­ life style? Will the ultra right ported. quench our desire for inquiry and Large New York investors be­ compassion? Will we fight alone? gan open-pit coal mining in Can­ Or will we even fight? ada across the border from Gla­ cier Park. I requested that the In­ ternationa! Joint Commission in­ Ora J. Halvorson is a Montana vestigate pollution problems State Representative.

12 Conservatives Renew act, a free enterprise Interest in State and education act, and a school discipline act. This short Notes to Note Local Politics booklet has been sent out to 8,000 house and senate mem­ By Lee Webb bers in the 50 states. Conservative organizations, The National Conservative Quality of Working Unions was outlined in a which in the past eight years Political Action Committee Life Meeting 1975 booklet prepared by the have concentrated their at­ provided financial backing National Center for Urban tention on the White House for conservative candidates A national conference on Ethnic Affairs. Such non­ and Congress, are pouring for Congress and state and Productivity and Quality of member deposits are 100% money and resources into local public officials in the Working Life in the Public insured by the US govern­ state and local government. 1976 elections. They claim Sector is planned for May 25- ment and pay substantial in­ Two relatively new that 63% of their candidates 26 at the Mayflower Hotel in terest. Over $1,700,000 has organizations, the American for Congress won, and 55% Washington, D.C. Sponsored been invested in 16 low in­ Legislative Clearinghouse of the 130 candidates for state by the U.S. Conference of come Community Develop­ based in Washington, D.C., and local office. Mayors, the Work in ment Credit Unions. A report and the National Con­ Former staffers and leaders America Institute, and the describing the effects of this servative Political Action of the Reagan for President National Center for Produc­ effort is available from Lloyd Committee are separately campaign are very active as tivity and Quality of Agostinelli, National Center providing model legislation directors and officers of NC­ Working Life, registration is for Urban Ethnic Affairs, and research to conservative PAC. The organization con­ $95. For information contact 1521 16 St, N.W., D.C. state and local public of­ centrates on the nuts and Virginia Richards, Conference 20036. ficials. NCPAC is also bolts of campaign Coordinator, Work in providing money and re­ organization with the same America Institute, 700 White Madison CDC Plan sources for conservative cam­ elan that characterized the Plains Rd, Scarsdale, NY paigns for state and local Reagan campaign. They 10583. Mayor Paul Soglin is sub­ political office. promise to provide candidates mitting to the Madison City The American Legislative they support with extensive Solar Laws Council an ordinance to Exchange Council describes polling and issues develop­ create a Community Develop­ A compendium of current itself as "committed to curb­ ment, demographic research ment Corporation for the solar legislation is featured in ing the growth and power of to target districts, and com­ the April issue of THE city. Copies of the proposed government." It helps state prehensive training seininars ELEMENTS. During the last ordinance and the ac­ legislators dedicated to for conservative candidates session 30 or more solar companying "An Economic "productive free enterprise, and staffers. They also say Development Strategy for energy incentives were intro­ private property rights, and that they are targeting these Madison" can be obtained duced. THE ELEMENTS limited representative govern­ services in the local elections from Jim Rowan, Assistant to summarizes 28 of the major ment." ALEC will provide af­ coming up in Virginia, New the Mayor, City Hall, bills. To obtain the April filiated legislators with Jersey, and Kentucky in 1977, Madison, WI 53709. issue, write to THE periodic issue briefs and fact and are actively recruiting ELEMENTS, 1901 Q St., sheets, suggested legislation, a potential candidates for state N.W., DC 20009, or sub- Public Policy Resource monthly bill digest, and a and local races in 1978. newsletter First Reading To assist candidates and cribe for one year for $7. News about articles, which informs members of campaign managers in run­ studies, and reports on legislative ideas and ning races for state Housing Publications municipal and state public "grassroots activity" legislatures, NCPAC has policies is available from the Two excellent publications throughout the country. written and published In Or­ Municipal Government on housing policies have One of ALEC's primary der to Win : A State Reference Center at the recently been issued by ac­ publications is 1977 Suggested Legislative Campaign Manual Boulder, CO Public library. tivist community groups. One State Legislation, a 66-page detailing campaign strategy, A lengthy monthly newsletter is Hostage! Housing and the book, which includes 22 tactics, and schedules for con­ lists additions to the resource Massachusetts Fiscal Crisis by suggested pieces of legislation servative campaigns for state library, and a 500 page an­ Michael Stone and Emily developed by ALEC mem­ legislatures. nual catalogue of the collec­ Achtenberg, published by the bers. The legislation is For more information on tion is published. For more in­ Boston Community School, strongly right-of-center, in­ the American Legislative Ex­ formation on their monthly 107 South St., Boston, 02111. cluding a state constitutional change Council, contact Newsletter and annual The price is $1.50. The amendment limiting total ALEC, 600 Pennsylvania Catalogue, contact the second is "Housing in the taxes which a state can Ave, S.E. Suite 204, D.C. Municipal Reference Center, Public Domain : The Only collect, another constitutional 20003. For information on Boulder Public Library, 100 Solution" by Peter Hawley. It amendment guaranteeing the NCPAC, contact it at 1500 Canyon Blv'd., P.O. Drawer is available for $1.50 from right to property, a financial Wilson Blv'd., Suite 513, H, Boulder 80302. the Metropolitan Council on privacy .act, a right to life Arlington, VA 22209. Housing, 24 W. 30 St. New York 10001. Patients' Bill of Rights make decisions about their sumer issues, the booklet Credit Union Project own health care. It is bi­ would apply to most com­ "A Patients' Bill of Rights lingual (Spanish and English) munities. A unique way to assist and Responsibilities : Health and graphically illustrated. 50d per copy plus postage; economically disadvantaged Policy of the City of Published by Health Writers, 10 or more copies 40i plus neighborhoods by making Madison," is a guide for an investigative, ad- postage. Health Writers, 306 nonmember deposits in Com­ health consumers regarding vocate/journaiist group North Brooks St., Madison, munity Development Credit their right to participate and writing about health and con- WI 53715.

13 Tax Reform Confab Draws Officials Incredibly, on April 16-17 quickly—a pattern that has Banking Conference over 200 people from around forced many poor and black the country chose to stay in­ residents from D.C. neigh­ doors on a beautiful and borhoods—by heavily taxing for Non-Bankers balmy week-end in the profits of sales when the Washington D.C. while they current owner has owned the listened intently and talked house less than three years. animatedly about tax reforms Massachusetts State Rep. Bar­ By Kevin Johnson that would increase funds ney Frank said the major limit on tax reform is fear of needed by municipalities for "Banking for Non-Bankers: Structurally the plan was to human services, but that displeasing business. He cited The Public Interest and establish a bank holding com­ would shift more of the tax examples of labor leaders Development Banking" is the pany with three arms : a com­ who oppose tax breaks for burden to corporations and theme of a conference set for mercial bank, a not-for-profit the wealthy. The majority of middle-income workers when June 5 through 10,1977 in subsidiary devoted to social told industry might withdraw participants were elected or Chicago and co-sponsored by welfare programming, and a jobs. appointed officials especially the National Conference, the for-profit subsidiary to make concerned with tax issues, The National Conference is Woodstock Institute, the equity investments in such as Leonel Castillo, Con­ planning many follow up ac­ National Public Interest economic development troller for the city of tivities to the week-end Research Group and the projects in South Shore. Houston, TX, Evan Doss, meeting, including technical unique Chicago South Shore Assessor for Claiborn Coun­ In three and a half years assistance through the Alter­ National Bank. The meeting ty, MS., Joanne Chesler, the South Shore Bank has native Legislation will aquaint participants with newly elected Tax Assessor reversed the decline in Clearinghouse and intensive the fundamental skills needed from Urbana, II., and Byron deposits and reinvested more workshops and conferences at to deal with topics such as Dorgan, Tax Commissioner than a third, or $8 million, of state and local levels. For reinvestment, credit of North Dakota. But city its loan portfolio in the neigh­ more information on any of availability, loan criteria, mayors, councilmembers and borhood, a relatively high these programs, write to the bank structure and state representatives were proportion compared with National Conference, 1901 Q management, as well as issues well represented. other urban banks. It has St., N.W., DC 20009. such as branch banking, bank developed and marketed new Washington D.C. City holding companies, alter­ Many of the programs programs to better meet the Councilman Marion Barry native financial institutions discussed at the conference needs of low income described a tax proposal he is and secondary markets. putting before his Finance and are in the Tax Manual, "New customers. The bank is now The South Shore National beginning to work with Revenue Committee, which is Directions in State and Local Bank is key to the conference. aimed at discouraging possible partners in potential Tax Reform", prepared for Chicago's South Shore neigh­ speculators from buying joint ventures to accomplish the conference by Jonathan borhood, which had been a homes and reselling them Rowe. See review below. larger housing rehabilitation predominantly white com­ and commercial development munity, had "turned over" in projects. the last decade causing the Net bank income for 1976 bank to lose a significant part New Directions in State & Locai Tax Reform was $429,000—a figure close of its deposit base as its to industry norms for customers moved to the "Nobody ever told us officials who have been similarly sized banks. Last suburbs. In 1972 the bank how to reform the taxes," active in the tax arena. year new development loans owners, claiming the area a state legislator said A major theme of "New amounted to $2.9 million out­ could no longer support a recently. "They just told Directions in State and standing to South Shore commercial bank, requested us to do it." Local Tax Reform" is that residents. tax reform comes in all regulatory approval to move to a downtown location. As an outgrowth of its con­ For years, state and shapes and sizes. "Tax cern and relative success in local tax reform has been reform does not only mean Community pressure resulted in denial of the request. Eight neighborhood redevelopment a desire without a closing big income tax and reinvestment, the South definition. "New Direc­ loopholes," the in­ months later the bank was purchased by a group of Shore National Bank has tions in State and Local troduction says. "It means, joined with other Tax Reform" brings the as well, making sure that churches^ foundations and private individuals. organizations committed to tax reform movement into merchants turn over the alternative policies to plan focus. It tells what tax sales taxes they collect The intent of the newcomers was to use the the "Banking for Non- reformers have done, and from customer si" Bankers" Conference. plan to do, on such sub­ This manual will not tell bank as a model for com­ jects as property taxes, you the "right" solution munity redevelopment. This For information about the auditing large cor­ for every tax reform markedly different approach conference write or call Kevin porations, new city problem. But it will help to banking, developed by Johnson, South Shore revenues, and taxes on public officials and citizens Ronald Grzywinski, em­ National Bank, 7054 S. Jef­ coal, and real estate alike to see the direction in phasized profit and lending frey Blvd., Chicago, II. speculation. One chapter which they should be prudence but was predicated 60649, (312) 288-1000; or, explains for the uninitiated going. on the belief that a com­ Lawrence Rosser, Woodstock how to read a tax Price for the 390-page mercial bank, operated as a Institute, (312) 644-4469. proposal. Another chapter bosk is $6.50, $13 to in­ development bank, would be profiles the accomplishments stitutions. To order see the best primary base from Kevin Johnson is a Goddard. of seven state and local page 15. which to attack neighborhood College Intern working with deterioration. the South Shore Bank.

14 Publications Available From the National Conference

Alternative Legislation Series ($1 each) Public Policy Series

[~| State Bank. Draft legislation from Oregon and New York. □ Public Policy Reader, Second Edition. Prepared for the f~~j Metropolitan Planning Law, Minnesota legislation establishing Austin Conference. The Reader is a unique collection of integrated metropolitan system of land use planning within the model legislation and ordinance, articles, analyses, and seven-county St. Paul-Minneapolis Metropolitan Area. proposals on such issues as energy, tax reform, controlling corporations, and long range program development. Over 0 Nuclear Safeguards Packet, A compendium of nuclear safe­ 650 pages. NEW 1977 PRICE: $5; $10 to institutions. guards moratorium initiative measures from seven states. f~j Legislative Handbook on Women's Issues by Kathy Rhodes and [~| Displaced Homemakers. Bill to establish multipurpose centers to Ann Beaudry. A collection of legislation on economic issues af­ provide counseling, training, skills and referral services to fecting women, including the best, most innovative proposals, displaced homemakers. and a detailed bibliography. Price: $2.50, $5 to institutions. n Citizen Bill of Rights relating to law enforcement intelligence in­ R The Cities' Wealth : Programs for Community Economic Control formation. in Berkeley, California, compiled by the Community Ownership [~I South Dakota Homestead bill. Model legislation for establishment Organizing Project. This report outlines in detail the programs of a homestead lands commission designed to strengthen family arid organizing strategies of the Berkeley Coalition over the seven farm system of agriculture. years of its political work with the Berkeley City Council. Price: [~| A compendium of public power authority bills. Summary and $2.50, $5 to institutions. analysis by Lee Webb. I~~l LABOR-FAC §1. From Conference Labor Task Force. Toward a □ Neighborhood Government. Washington, D.C. Act to Establish "Public Employees Bill of Rights and Model Contract" : Advisory Neighborhood Commissions. Background materials on legal framework; data; resources ; 1 [ Senate bill S2631, the National Consumer Cooperative Bank bill. reports and letters on alternative local developments. Price: Proposes a bank that will make loans directly to consumer coops. $2.50, $5 to institutions. (~1 Model State Public Utility Commission Act. Includes recom­ [""I The Political and Economic Crisis of the Northeast Cities, edited mendations in all areas of electric utility regulation : commission by Leonard Rodberg. Proceedings of a Seminar on alternative ur­ structure, procedure, jurisdiction, enforcement, etc, By Lee Webb ban policies held April 23-27, 1976. Includes discussion by Hart­ & Jack Chesson. ford, CT. City Councilman Nick Carbone, Washington DC City f~l Model State Energy Act. A draft Bill for a democratically con­ Councilman Marion Barry, and others. $1.50, $3 to institutions. trolled, publicly owned state energy system. By Lee Webb & Jeff I~~l State Bank for Co-Ops, by Lee Webb. A proposal to establish a Faux. state bank for cooperatives and a state cooperative development □ Lifeline Packet. The most innovative 'lifeline" electric utility rate agency. The bill was prepared for the Department of Employment structure proposals introduced in various state legislatures. Development, State of California. $2.50, $5 to institutions. f l Louisiana Automobile Insurance Corporation Act. Model f~] Public Control of Public Money ; Should States and Cities Have legislation establishing a universal, compulsory auto insurance Their Own Banks?, by Derek Shearer. Analyzes the advantages plan, with the state corporation the exclusive underwriter. and disadvantages of state and city-owned banks. Includes □ Community Development Finance Corporation. The legislation descriptions of the state-owned Bank of North Dakota, and recen­ provides equity and venture capital to finance businesses and tly proposed state banks in New York, Washington, Oregon, and create jobs in specifically targeted areas where economic con­ California. Price: $1.50 - $3 to institutions. ditions are most severe. □ The Manitoba Auto Insurance Plan, by Sherman Bernard. A report on the operation, costs, and social and economic con­ Reprints (50d each) siderations of providing auto insurance through a public cor­ □ "Public Control of Public Money" by James Rowen, reprint from poration. Price: $1, $2 to institutions. The Progressive, February 1977. A 6-page article about the Estes □ New Directions in State & Local Tax Reform. A handbook writ­ Park, CO banking conference, outlining a number of the ten largely by tax-reform practitioners and containing original programs and people represented there. articles, reprints and resource guides. Price: $6.50, $13 to □ "Campaign Surprise: Some Politicians Are Worth Voting For!" institutions. by Alexander Cockburn & James Ridgeway, repint from The Revenue Strategies for D .C .: Potential Initiative Actions. Village Voice, May 24, 1976 and 'The New Progressives" by A study of potential tax revenue sources for cities. Price: $1.50, Cockburn & Ridgeway, The Voice, June 23, 1975. Officials $3 to institutions. associated with the National Conference and their innovative pro­ grams are described in these two articles.

[~| National Conference NEWSLETTER. The newsletter reports on the activities and plans of the new movement/net- work of state and local activist elected officials, and on the work of the organizers and planners who are part of the National Conference on Alternative State and Local Public Policies. Six issues per year. $5, $10 to institutions.

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N am e______No. & Street ______C ity ______State______Zip Telephone______Position/Organization ______Alternative Legislation

Town Meetings Reject Former U.S. Sen. George Proposed Alaskan Homemaking Factor Nuclear Power Aiken, who retired in 1974 Legislation in New Divorce Law after 34 years, spoke out at The nuclear power industry A number of interesting length in the Putney town A divorce law aimed at received a strong body blow bills are in preparation for in­ meeting in opposition to the assuring women more when 36 Vermont and at least ' troduction to die Alaska equitable divorce settlements, anti-nuclear proposals. But in eight Nèw Hampshire com­ Legislature. They include 1) a most towns the anti-nuclear was passed by the 1977 munities, on their traditional state energy corporation that majorities were two or three Virginia General Assembly. Town Meeting Day in March, would put the state in the oil to one. Only two towns re­ The legislation, sponsored by voted against future nuclear and gas exploration business; jected the bans completely. the Assembly's seven women construction within their bor­ 2) a state bank that would in­ Five others either tabled or members, instructs judges to ders. The towns also voted vest Alaska's surplus oil postponed parts of the ban. consider a woman's non­ against the transportation of revenues; 3) a bill prohibiting monetary homemaking con­ nuclear materials through An important additional public employee affiliation tributions—such as cooking, their communities, and the vote against nuclear power is with the Teamster's Union; 4) cleaning and child rearing—in storage or disposal of nuclear coming up in mid-May in the public finandng, with spend­ establishing a settlement. The wastes within their borders. small town of Orwell, iden­ ing limits, of the Governor's measure also allows a judge This was the first time that tified by the state's largest race and 5) a bill that would to order a lump sum award a large number of com­ utility as the best site for a fund citizen participation in in addition to periodic munities within a state took a new nuclear power plant. utility hearings. Copies or alimony payments, and or­ firm stance against future news of these bills can be had ders the judge to consider In neighboring New Hamp­ nuclear development. The by writing to Jamie Love, property as well as income in shire, the Clamshell Alliance Vermont effort was organized Alaska Public Interest Re­ reaching a settlement. and the Seacoast Anti- by the Vermont Public In­ search Group, P.O. 1093, Pollution League sponsored terest Research Group which Anchorage, 99510. M ore on page 2 similar resolutions in about succeeded in getting 11 towns, but focused on op­ resolutions on the warrants in position to the planned Third Annual Conference Set for Denver about 40 towns. The votes on Seabrook nuclear plant on some of the anti-nuclear New Hampshire's seacoast. - proposals are not binding. The third annual conference of the National Con­ Eight towns voted against the While the nuclear opponents ference on Alternative State and Local Public Policies, nuclear plants, and Seabrook, had conceded that before the the site of a plant already un­ which will be held the week-end of July 7-10 in Den­ voting, they insisted that the der construction, voted to ver, CO. promises to be the most provocative and im­ symbolic nature of the towns' votes was important. Nuclear ban the transportation of portant gathering of electoral activists since the first nuclear wastes. power industry officials, who gathering in Madison, VVI in 1975. As before, elected earlier in the year had an­ The anti-nuclear resolutions and appointed officials, community and labor nounced they were doubling are very much in the recent organizers, public interest advocates, public em- their public-relations budget, tradition of New England ployees and community leaders will meet to share ex­ said that a court test of the town government. Two years periences and programs. The three-day conference .votes was likely in any case. ago many Vermont town I The present Republican meetings took strong stands will have an extensive program of speakers, panels, governor, Richard Snelling, for public power and a and workshops that will provide participants an un­ and the past Democratic radical progressive tax reform paralleled opportunity to study the most innovative governor, Thomas Salmon, proposal. For more in­ legislation and proposals under consideration in states opposed the towns con­ formation and copies of and cities across the country. Turn to pages 7-10 for sidering the resolutions, materials prepared for the the Conference Agenda, housing and other in­ arguing that they were inap­ town meetings, contact propriate and that such Whitey Bluestein, Vermont formation — and a pre-registration form to ensure decisions should be left to the PIRG, 26 State St, Mont­ your participation. state and federal government. pelier, VT

National Conference Newsletter Non-Profit Org. Institute for Policy Studies U.S. POSTAGE PAID 1901 Que Street, N.W. Permit 45748 Washington, D.C. 20009 Washington, D.C.

STAFF OF NATIONAL CONFERENCE LEE WEBB BARBARA BICK ANN BEAUDRY JOSIE ANDERSON