TERRITORIAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE DIVISION OF THE URAL KAMA REGION: THE ESSENCE OF EVOLUTIONARY TRANSFORMATIONS

Abstract

The article substantiates the importance of an efficient administrative structure of the territory and its impact on the development. On the basis of literature and archival materials, we systematized and analyzed the stages of reforming the territorial structure of the Perm region (Perm Krai). Scientific substantiation is provided for the territorial structure being improved when replacing a two-level administration system with a one-level system. The advantages of consolidating municipalities are indicated – a greater responsibility of the heads and deputies, less time spent on coordination and making decisions concerning the territory’s functioning and development, and lower economic costs of maintaining the government apparatus. The disadvantages of consolidating the territory are as follows: the lack of criteria for the distribution of funds across the territories included in the district; transformation of the region’s municipal-territorial division is carried out without a theoretical justification for the consolidation; the boundaries of municipalities do not coincide with the area of physical accessibility of services (‘service area’); the territory loses its specificity, especially in the case of a rural territory; there is a distance between municipal authorities and the residents of the district. The paper provides recommendations as to the transformation (consolidation) of municipalities in the region – reform of the territorial structure should be carried out on a scientific basis, it is necessary to elaborate individual strategies for the development of municipalities while taking into account their potential, economic and geographical location, economic activity, natural, historical and cultural characteristics, points of growth, and the introduction of brands for making the territory recognizable and attracting consumers and businesses.