American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What is NOT typically included in a city planner's economic program?

1. Retaining existing business and industry

2. Attracting new business

3. Promoting a policy to limit large box retailers from locating in your community

4. Developing and financing facilities that help capture business or recycle local funds

The correct answer is: Promoting a policy to limit large box retailers from locating in your community

A city planner's economic program generally focuses on fostering a healthy economic environment that benefits the community. This involves strategies to retain and attract businesses, which are essential for job creation and economic growth. Options such as retaining existing businesses, attracting new ones, and developing facilities to support economic activities directly align with typical planning practices aimed at enhancing local economies. In contrast, promoting a policy that limits large box retailers from establishing in the community may not fit within the standard objectives of a city planner’s economic program. While planners are keenly aware of the impacts large retailers can have on local economies, the focus is usually on encouraging diverse development that respects community needs rather than outright limiting specific business types. Thus, this kind of policy could be viewed as restrictive rather than constructive in promoting the overall economic health of a community.