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Competition and choice in New York City social services.
Abstract
Explores whether privatization of social services, which is intended to improve public services by introducing competition and choice, results in competition. The author studied New York City, where government funding of nonprofits (by the federal, state, and city governments) has grown to significant proportions. The study examined 132 contracts to nonprofit agencies for 3 services, which were shelters for homeless adults, home care, and employment training. The evidence suggests the procurement procedures were competitive and followed good practices. There was significant competition in terms of the number of announcements issued, the number of requests for proposals distributed, and the number of proposals ultimately submitted, an average of 2.48 proposals per award. Contracting for homeless shelters has produced a voucher-like system with desirable features. Vouchers are also used for some employment training, and could be used for home care. Problems of contracting with nonprofit agencies are reviewed.
Journal
(2002)
vol62
no1
pages82-91
Categories
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Managing External Relations
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Public-Private Partnerships
