Public policy decision making at the local level of government.

Consider the following case study that illustrates public policy decision making at the local level of government.
Smithville is a small city with 125,000 inhabitants. Because of a weak economy, a significant part of its population is facing bad economic circumstances—an estimated 2,000 families have unemployed heads-of-households and are at or below the poverty line. The overall unemployment rate in Smithville is 12%.
The City Council is considering the establishment of a food bank to help suffering families survive the tough economic times. A budget review indicates that the city has the financial resources to support 2,000 families, with an average of four members per family, for a period of 18 months.
As Framing Decisions points out, public policy is largely about decision making. The biggest issue in public policy is making decisions that lead to “the greatest good for the greatest number” (in the words of Jeremy Bentham, a leading Utilitarian thinker of the 19th century). Invariably, there are multiple views on what constitutes “the greatest good” and how its benefits should be distributed among the population. There are also disputes on the role of government in solving societal problems, with liberals believing that government should play an active role in solving such problems, and conservatives (particularly Libertarians) holding that problems can be best resolved through the actions of the free market. (1-2 pages total)
a. In the case of Smithville, what is the likely position of City Council liberals regarding the establishment of a food bank? What is their rationale for holding this position? Be specific—avoid vague generalities. Take into consideration both the costs and benefits of pursuing a policy based on this position.
b. What is the likely position of City Council conservatives? What is their rationale? Be specific—avoid vague generalities. Take into consideration both the costs and benefits of pursuing a policy based on this position.
c. Playing the role of objective observer, what do you think are the merits and shortcomings of both liberal and conservative viewpoints?
d. How does this case study illustrate the types of issues public policy makers face when dealing with both big and little problems?