Resident Hiring Preference Ordinances: A Comparative Analysis

Not all economic development tactics work in every city. The success of resident hiring preference ordinances, for example, depends upon a variety of factors. These conclusions emerge from a comparative, policy analysis of three cities in the United States—Boston; Camden, New Jersey; and Chicago—that have developed resident hiring preference ordinances, and another large city—Philadelphia—that has it under consideration. The ordinance attempts to increase local employment, reduce unemployment, and overcome job discrimination through hiring goals for residents, minorities, and, in some cases, women on governmentally aided construction projects. The theoretical rationale for such ordinances, the political background to their consideration and adoption, the ordinance's design, and the consequences that ensue in both the local labor market and the courts are analyzed.