Publication Date

2008

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

First Advisor

Rocheleau, Bruce A.

Degree Name

Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy)

Legacy Department

Department of Political Science

LCSH

Housing Authority of Cook County; Housing--Illinois--Cook County

Abstract

This study examined whether and how policy reform can be achieved through a case study of the Housing Choice Partners (HCP) mobility counseling program for the Housing Authority of Cook County (HACC). The study centered on two research questions: the first focused on program success and the second questioned the reform process. Program success was determined through evaluation of intermediate and ultimate program goals. Intermediate goals assessed the program's capacity to meet contractual obligations at reasonable costs in comparison with similar programs. The results found the program met or exceeded these measures. While initial costs were high, HCP reduced comparable costs and was less costly than its successor. The ultimate program goal was to encourage participants to move to affluent, nonsegregated communities. Graphical and statistical analyses were conducted. The graphical analysis showed no significant change in the intercept or slope following program intervention; movements occurred prior to its implementation. To control for data constraints, hierarchical generalized linear modeling and hierarchical linear modeling analyses were conducted. The results confirmed the graphical analysis: no statistically significant changes in intercepts and slopes, except for a small effect in one area. Qualitative analysis focused broadly on the reform process. Analysis centered on stakeholder interviews and supplemental data using different theoretical frameworks, including Allison's Models I-III, the Advocacy Coalition Framework (ACF), network theory and others. A subset of research questions based on these frameworks examined the process creating the program, the process of its implementation, and its continuation. Qualitative data indicated no single model explained the HCP story. Rather, it seems best understood by examining different angles. Each lens offered information; however, some lenses provided greater clarity. The ACF highlighted conflicted and resistant policy positions. Allison's Model II showed how bureaucracies resist reform using routines and procedures. Network theory illuminated how partnership formation limits cooperation. Despite limited success and resistance, HACC continues mobility counseling. While HCP failed to encourage a significant number of nontraditional moves and no longer operates this service, the forces which created the program and led to change prompted HACC to continue this effort. In that, HCP may have succeeded.

Comments

Includes bibliographical references (pages [258]-269).

Extent

vi, 300 pages

Language

eng

Publisher

Northern Illinois University

Rights Statement

In Copyright

Rights Statement 2

NIU theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from Huskie Commons for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without the written permission of the authors.

Media Type

Text

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