ABSTRACT

We explore the effects of agreement formalization and partners on cooperation costs in twelve local government services in New York State. Our survey differentiates agreement formalization (informal, memorandum of understanding, joint production, contracting and special districts) and controls for cooperation duration and non-profit partners. Cost data (1996–2016) enable panel models which find agreement formality often has no effect on costs. Non-profit partners typically reduce costs. Formality is associated with higher costs in services where quality improvements are sought, and lower costs where formality shifts budget authority. In general the costs of formality appear to be balanced by savings over time.

摘要

我们探讨了协议正式化和合作伙伴对纽约州 12 个地方政府服务机构合作成本的影响。我们的调查区分了协议正式化（非正式、谅解备忘录、联合生产、承包和特区）以及对合作期限和非营利合作伙伴的控制。成本数据（1996-2016）启用面板模型，发现协议形式通常对成本没有影响。非营利合作伙伴通常会降低成本。当寻求质量改进时，正式性与较高的服务成本相关，而当正式性转移了预算权力时，则与较低的成本相关。一般来说，随着时间的推移，形式成本似乎可以通过节省来平衡。