Acknowledgments
Many colleagues, friends, and critics (friendly and otherwise) have helped in the maturation of this book. First, we must thank everyone who helped in the construction of the Kernan-Shepard Commission report, which launched us into this work. We are especially thankful to Louis Mahern and our friend and colleague John Stafford at Indiana–Purdue University Ft. Wayne for their insight. During the statewide debate among state and local government officials, constituents, and other interested parties, we were helped by many folks whose comments and critiques pushed the project forward. David Sjoquist at Georgia State provided invaluable guidance on the theory and empirics of the subject. Kevin Brinegar, Mark Lawrence, and Cindy Monnier of the Indiana Chamber of Commerce helped us understand the policy and data dimension of the project. Members of the Indiana Senate Local Government Committee asked a number of pertinent questions that led us to more closely examine certain elements of this study. We also appreciate the invitation from Eric Kelly to present our work at the Muncie–Delaware County Government Reorganization Committee. We are much indebted