The economic effects of the implementation of integrated development programs of small historical settlements (on the example of Kasimov, Ryazan region)

Abstract

The purpose of the study in this article is to identify and analyze the potential economic effect from the implementation of comprehensive programs for the development of small historical settlements in Russia. At the present stage of the economic development of our country, in the economic system of these settlements a whole range of problems arises, which are in many ways common to all small towns. The key ones are the massive closure of uncompetitive enterprises, unemployment, mass migration of people to large cities, infrastructural decline and a general decline in population standards of life. In the case of small historical settlements, this situation is also fraught with the loss of the valuable objects of historical and cultural heritage of the peoples of Russia.The article outlines shortly the main measures, currently used by the executive authorities of the Russian Federation to revitalize the economy of small historical settlements. In particular, the preparation by the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation for the implementation of the Concept on the development of historical settlements, supporting and promoting cultural and tourist opportunities, and developing the economy cultural heritage is mentioned. Within the framework of this Concept, it is planned to implement comprehensive programs for the development of small cities and historical settlements; those programs should take into account all aspects of the functioning of such settlements as socio-economic systems. Issues of economic efficiency of such projects are among the most important for making decisions on implementation. This article analyzes the potential economic effects of the implementation of the project for the creation of the tourist and recreation cluster “Kasimovskiy” (town of Kasimov, Ryazan Region). This project is considered by the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation as a pilot in the program for the implementation of the above-mentioned Concept. The economic effect analysis (results of which are shown in this article), was carried out in the context of various income and cost items of the city budget, using the methods of budget planning and financial analysis, and is based on a system of coefficients developed by the expert method.The analysis shows a significant economic effect of the program implementation in a number of areas – in particular, in the elements of the national economy, tax structure, social security system and housing and communal services, as well as in the sphere of employment of the population and subsidized structure. At the same time, it is important to bear in mind that since the implementation of the program implies a widespread use of the mechanism of municipal-private partnerships, the relationship between the costs of budgets at various levels and the economic effect identified should be the focus of a separate case study.