Abstract
The legitimacy of citizen participation in local government affairs has come to be widely accepted, if not enthusiastically embraced, even while it is hindered by official resistance, the complexity of modem government, or both. The nature and institutionalization of citizen participation in development policy in Boston is the result of current and historical economic conditions and political mobilization. The structure of participatory mechanisms is constantly being challenged and reshaped by developers, community members, and public officials. The current controversy over one such mechanism in Boston shows the dynamic forces that are at work.

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