Joint Powers Authorities: A Comprehensive Guide to Collaborative Governance

Introduction

Joint powers authorities (JPAs) are legal entities created by two or more public agencies to jointly exercise their powers. They provide a framework for agencies to pool resources, share services, and collaborate on projects that benefit their communities.

JPAs are governed by state enabling legislation, which varies from state to state. However, they generally share the following characteristics:

• Separate legal entity: JPAs are independent from the agencies that create them.
• Independent board: JPAs are governed by a board of directors appointed by the participating agencies.
• Limited powers: JPAs only have the powers specifically granted to them by their member agencies.

Benefits of Joint Powers Authorities

JPAs offer numerous benefits to participating agencies, including:

• Enhanced service delivery: By combining resources, JPAs can provide services that individual agencies would not be able to offer on their own.
• Increased efficiency: JPAs can streamline operations and reduce administrative costs by sharing services.
• Improved coordination: JPAs foster collaboration between agencies, reducing duplication and improving communication.
• Regional cooperation: JPAs facilitate collaboration across jurisdictional boundaries, allowing agencies to address regional issues.
• Economic development: JPAs can attract businesses and investment by providing infrastructure and services that support economic growth.

Why Joint Powers Authorities Matter

JPAs play a vital role in local governance by:

• Addressing complex issues: JPAs can tackle issues that cross jurisdictional boundaries, such as transportation, water resource management, and economic development.
• Providing specialized services: JPAs can create specialized agencies to provide services that require expertise or resources beyond the capacity of individual agencies.
• Promoting accountability: JPAs are subject to the same transparency and accountability requirements as other public agencies.
• Enhancing public trust: By providing efficient and effective services, JPAs build trust in local government.

How Joint Powers Authorities Work

JPAs are typically created through an intergovernmental agreement (IGA). The IGA outlines the purpose, powers, and governance structure of the JPA.

Once established, the JPA board of directors is responsible for:

• Appointing a staff
• Setting policies
• Approving budgets
• Providing oversight of operations

JPAs typically receive funding from member agencies, grants, and other sources. They can also issue bonds to finance capital projects.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When forming and operating a JPA, it is important to avoid common mistakes, such as:

• Insufficient planning: Failing to adequately plan for the JPA's purpose, powers, and governance can lead to conflicts and inefficiencies.
• Lack of communication: Poor communication between member agencies can hinder collaboration and decision-making.
• Overlapping roles: Duplicating the roles of existing agencies can create confusion and inefficiency.
• Inattention to legal requirements: Ignoring state enabling legislation or other legal requirements can jeopardize the JPA's legal status.
• Lack of accountability: Failing to establish clear lines of accountability can lead to mismanagement and a lack of public trust.

Pros and Cons of Joint Powers Authorities

Pros

• Enhanced service delivery
• Increased efficiency
• Improved coordination
• Regional cooperation
• Economic development

Cons

• Creation and operation costs
• Potential for conflict between member agencies
• Limited powers
• Difficulty in dissolving
• Potential for political influence

Current Status of Joint Powers Authorities in the United States

As of 2021, there were over 3,000 JPAs in the United States, according to the National Association of Counties (NACo). JPAs are used by all levels of government, including cities, counties, special districts, and states.

JPAs are becoming increasingly common as agencies seek to address complex challenges and improve service delivery.

Case Studies of Successful Joint Powers Authorities

Numerous JPAs have successfully implemented collaborative projects, including:

• The San Diego Regional Airport Authority: This JPA operates and manages San Diego International Airport, the busiest single-runway airport in the United States.
• The Central Contra Costa Transit Authority: This JPA provides bus and ferry service in Contra Costa County, California.
• The New York Power Authority: This JPA generates and transmits electricity to customers throughout New York State.

These case studies demonstrate the effectiveness of JPAs in providing essential services and addressing regional issues.

Tables

Table 1: Number of JPAs by State

Table 2: Types of Services Provided by JPAs

Table 3: Funding Sources for JPAs

Best Practices for Establishing and Operating Joint Powers Authorities

• Define the purpose and scope of the JPA clearly.
• Secure buy-in from all participating agencies.
• Develop a well-drafted IGA.
• Establish a strong board of directors.
• Set clear lines of accountability.
• Foster open communication and collaboration.
• Monitor and evaluate the JPA's performance regularly.

Call to Action

Joint powers authorities are valuable tools for collaborative governance. By following best practices and avoiding common pitfalls, agencies can create successful JPAs that benefit their communities.

If your agency is considering forming a JPA, consult with experts and conduct thorough research to ensure its success.