시․군 통합의 행․재정적 효과와 과제

Abstract

There has been much debate lately over the reform of the local administrative system. The reform of the local administrative system is aimed at enhancing the convenience of local residents, introducing more efficient administration, establishing practical decentralization of power and local autonomy, and securing global competitiveness at local level. Opinions are divided on the reform of the local administrative system. Proponents say the reform will reduce administrative costs, and bring positive financial effects by achieving the economy of scale and economic effects by revitalizing the local economy. Opponents, on the other hand, say it will cause adverse effects including qualitative inequality of demand for administrative service, imbalance of delivery of service, economic gaps between localities, and intensified tensions within local communities. Above all, however, it must be noted that the reform should be evaluated based on the fundamental ideology of local autonomy; a conflict management system needs to be established as a means to minimize the adverse effects of the reform; and a monitoring and feedback system is also needed to monitor and generate feedback for the mid- to long-term effects of the reform of local administrative system.