Report recommendations

The "Growth in the Heartland" report recommends that Missouri:

Know the context of its growth. This includes creating a "Research Missouri" network to compile and seed research on growth and development. The state also needs to assess the degree to which its own activities hinder or accelerate sprawl.

Rethink transportation and infrastructure policy. "Transportation investments have in many cases shifted economic activity from one part of a region (generally the older core) to another (generally the exurban fringe) without full examination of the consequences," the report states.

Update the state's outmoded planning statutes.

Create a Missouri Public Capital Investment Board.

Preserve and maintain existing systems and communities rather than subsidize the creation of remote new ones.

Support alternative transportation strategies.

Reform tax increment financing.

The purpose of the state's tax increment financing statute is to stimulate investment in "blighted" or otherwise struggling areas. However, the vagueness of Missouri's TIF statutes allows them to be used for development deals in prosperous, or outlying, parts of regions that likely would develop on their own.

Review the state-local tax system.

"Missouri municipalities' heavy dependence on sales-tax revenues and the state's deep reliance on tax breaks due to spending caps set by the Hancock Amendment exaggerate decentralization by sharpening the competition between towns and cities."

In 1997, sales taxes generated 27 percent of general-fund revenues for Missouri cities and towns and 57 percent of towns' tax revenues. However, municipalities nationwide relied on sales-tax for just 7 percent for their general revenue and 18 percent of their tax collections.

Protect rural Missouri and craft livable regions. Missouri should work to protect the integrity of its signature rural spaces by forming well-planned regions.

Encourage local collaboration.