However, she said the private sector had a key role to play in boosting economic development and providing the platform for the increased investment in public services that was needed to lift people out of poverty.

BBC: Farmers work in a field in Jalalabad, in Afghanistan

"The city's debt load has increased substantially over the past decade resulting from an aggressive infrastructure and economic development expansion plan, " the ratings firm said.

WSJ: Kansas City Complex Becomes a Budget Hole

And I think the President spoke in his remarks about the idea of evaluating proposals that we've seen introduced in Congress and that we've heard from leaders -- like Governor Granholm -- whether it's increased economic development assistance or programs to spur the purchase of automobiles -- that we look into that immediately, and not again wait for any 30- or 60-day period.

WHITEHOUSE: White House Press Briefing