The Fiscal Impact Estimates of Land Development (FIELD) model was developed to analyze the financial feasibility of the comprehensive plans for Hillsborough County and the cities of Plant City, Tampa and Temple Terrace. FIELD enhances the decision-making process for policymakers and planners. In an environment that is evolving rapidly, tools like FIELD present invaluable opportunities to not only analyze the present situation, but also to compare the results of different scenarios for future growth. The FIELD model is based on the per capita multiplier approach and the case study method of fiscal impact analysis, as outlined in the “Fiscal Impact Handbook” (Burchell, 1978).

The FIELD model is built around “System Dynamics,” a computer based simulation modeling methodology developed at MIT in the 1950s by Jay W. Forrester. System Dynamics models use time as a variable and simulate the response of systems over time. FIELD was created using Powersim Studio 2005, a powerful and accessible simulation tool. Powersim and System Dynamics allowed us to incorporate quite a few innovative approaches in the model. FIELD is a multi-jurisdictional model, with which the comprehensive plans of Hillsborough County and its respective municipal jurisdictions can be analyzed for financial feasibility. It also allows the user to dynamically alter the policy options and assess the difference that this makes to the fiscal impact. The assumptions and equations used in the model are easy to comprehend even for a first-time user with a reasonable effort.

Some minor problems with the model are expected, as it is still in the development stage. Feel free to contact us regarding any issue that you comes across, or for further queries using the Contact Us link.

FIELD Design Team