Although smaller and more local elections could have implications more dramatic to an individual than larger district-, state-, and nation-wide elections do, very few citizens vote in them. Moreover, citizens are limited in procuring further information on candidates, issues, and the overall election when there are fewer sources of such…
Although smaller and more local elections could have implications more dramatic to an individual than larger district-, state-, and nation-wide elections do, very few citizens vote in them. Moreover, citizens are limited in procuring further information on candidates, issues, and the overall election when there are fewer sources of such information across various mediums. While existing literature on political communication and voter participation does not yet extend far enough to sufficiently address the most local aspects of media effects on elections, the political science field’s dominating frameworks would suggest that an increase in news media, social media, and ground mobilization tactics would increase civic engagement and voter participation. My research, which focuses on hyperlocal elections, both supports andrefutes certain elements of that suggestion. Based on surveys of potential voters in a university’s student government election and a school board election, interviews with two student government presidential candidates, and an analysis of social media engagement, my research compares three mass media platforms and two elections to characterize the effects of media on hyperlocal elections—that certain tactics have drastically different results on different populations. My research expands the body of media and politics knowledge to include hyperlocal elections, suggesting that civic engagement on the local levels require increased further study.
My Barrett Honors Thesis focuses on answering the question of whether a current owner of a single family home in Tempe, Arizona would receive an adequate return on investment (“ROI”) to justify adding an accessory dwelling unit (“ADU”) on their property for the purpose of generating rental income and capital…
My Barrett Honors Thesis focuses on answering the question of whether a current owner of a single family home in Tempe, Arizona would receive an adequate return on investment (“ROI”) to justify adding an accessory dwelling unit (“ADU”) on their property for the purpose of generating rental income and capital appreciation. I focused my research on Tempe’s zoning regulations, ADU general contractor (“GC”) options, possible parcels, proposed construction plans and budget, and lastly, a pro forma to determine ROI. After conducting the research, discussing with several GCs, and modeling returns, I determined that unlevered ADU development constitutes a novelty, not a solid investment choice with today’s market conditions. Factors that would change this recommendation decision would include a decrease in interest rates or a tempering of construction costs.
