ABSTRACT
BIDs are distinctive, formalized partnerships between the public and private sectors operating as units of sub-government at the local level. Controversies surrounding BIDs range from public manipulation to private governing, all submitted by people who have rarely if ever participated in the establishment of a BID or manage one. BIDs are arguably one the most democratic of processes bringing private citizens into a public governing process. But, this is often the height of muddling through, and that lets us know democracy is present even if convoluted and, at times, intemperate. All BIDs, formally—that is as part of government—are special districts designed to bring together public, private, and civic actors to achieve comprehensive community revitalization, economic development, and quality of life improvements in primary business and mixed use areas. Therefore, the study and practice of BIDs requires the study of special district governance. These governing structures far outnumber all other forms of government. Such entities tend to develop recognizable partnerships that allow the public sector to enjoy more vigorous entrepreneurship, while allowing the private sector to utilize public authority and public processes to achieve economic and community revitalization.
