Growth management

Full Answer Section The Bible provides some insights into the debate over growth management. In Isaiah 54:2-3, God tells the Israelites to "enlarge the place of your tent" and "stretch your tent curtains wide." This passage suggests that God is not opposed to growth, but that it should be done in a way that is sustainable and environmentally responsible. The principles of smart growth are consistent with the biblical vision of sustainable development. Smart growth policies are designed to promote compact development, reduce traffic congestion, and protect open space. These policies can help to create more livable and sustainable communities. Here are some of the reasons behind smart growth:

• To reduce environmental impacts. Smart growth policies can help to reduce the environmental impacts of development by promoting compact development, reducing impervious surfaces, and protecting environmentally sensitive areas.
• To improve economic efficiency. Smart growth policies can help to improve economic efficiency by reducing traffic congestion, improving access to jobs and services, and making communities more attractive to businesses.
• To create more livable communities. Smart growth policies can help to create more livable communities by providing more opportunities for walking, biking, and public transit, and by making communities more attractive to families and seniors.

In conclusion, the debate over growth management is complex and there is no easy answer. However, the principles of smart growth are consistent with the biblical vision of sustainable development. Smart growth policies can help to reduce environmental impacts, improve economic efficiency, and create more livable communities.

Sample Answer In his 1990 article "Growth Management: Good for the Town, Bad for the Nation?", Benjamin Chinitz argues that growth management policies, which are designed to control the growth of cities and towns, can have negative consequences for the nation as a whole. He argues that these policies can lead to higher housing prices, increased traffic congestion, and a loss of economic competitiveness. Chinitz's arguments were challenged by two other economists, William Fischel and Mark Neuman. Fischel (1991) argued that growth management policies can actually be beneficial for the nation by reducing environmental damage and preserving open space. Neuman (1991) argued that growth management policies can actually lead to lower housing prices and increased economic growth. The debate over the merits of growth management continues to this day. There is no clear consensus on whether these policies are beneficial or harmful for the nation. However, there is growing evidence that growth management can be effective in reducing environmental damage and preserving open space.