Economies of Scale and Sustainability in Local Government: A Complex Issue

Local governments may seek efficient public service delivery through scaling up production, and the quest for optimal local government size has attracted extensive attention of scholars policy makers. Indeed, if scale matters efficiency, increasing be a key factor in achieving more value money citizens. As such, getting right contribute significantly to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as set out 2030 Agenda. Nonetheless, there is considerable uncertainty with regard how shapes average cost delivery. These uncertainties have contributed makers organizations disregarding often inconclusive sometimes contradictory empirical evidence stimulating allowing mergers consolidation many Western countries. This Special Issue concerned economies government. Interesting issues addressed relate existence general specific implications both regarding various types (amalgamation, cooperation, outsourcing). Based on brief literature review, we inventory number which warrant further research. One conclusions that relationship between sustainability complex issue aspects. Examples include relation outsourcing multi-level aspects scale, trade-off exist efficiency (e.g., transition mergers). Another conclusion no such thing “one fits all” exists. Different perspectives play role should born mind when suggesting solutions providing recommendations achieve sustainable goals.