Most policy decisions are channeled through deliberative forums, such as a city council or state legislature. Economic development is a frequent concern in those deliberative forums, as economic development policy can greatly affect the life and livelihood of constituents. Yet the process of economic development policy can be enigmatic, intimidating, and/or inequitable. Accordingly, this dissertation analyzes economic development in localized policy processes and decisions. The driving goal is to better understand and ameliorate policy problems, especially problems of democratic deliberation and legitimacy. Thus, this dissertation joins other works that aim to “illustrate how rhetoric engages advocates and audiences alike to frame public problems and identify policy solutions.” This dissertation uses case studies as the basis for qualitative analysis. The case studies are distinct episodes of economic development decisions and campaigns. Rhetorical analysis is the main method of analysis. But this dissertation also honors the goals of a “problem structuring” study, where policy problems are interpreted, organized, and more clearly defined. Furthermore, each case is structured as an ecological study. This intensive observation of past situations and decisions allows a more concentrated focus on policy problems.

Chapter one introduces the frame of work, methods, and goals. Chapter two is an intensive look at the economic development policy of Harrisburg, PA from 1999-2003. This centers around an aging trash incinerator and encompasses issues such as environmentalism and social justice. Chapter three observes university-centered economic development. A series of case studies shows how universities employ similar rhetorical appeals to secure funding and investment. Chapter four addresses democratic legitimacy. After defining the term, the case studies of previous chapters are re-analyzed to uncover problems of democratic legitimacy.

In using this localized focus and distinct methodology, this dissertation endeavors to ameliorate policy problems in the analyzed cases. Yet these problems are often analogous to policy processes in many other contexts. Therefore, this dissertation is applicable to many policy situations across the country.