That's a good point, but I wouldn't assume they spent $0. The direct costs and increases in undesirable externalities do have quantifiable costs. If the gover

That's a good point, but I wouldn't assume they spent $0. The direct costs and increases in undesirable externalities do have quantifiable costs. If the government has been prudent and thorough, most if not all of those costs will be offset by positive direct benefits and externalities. If not, the activity will be a net negative to the community.