What might indicate a weak nexus between payment and benefit received in public services?

A weak nexus between payment and benefit received in public services is suggested when there is a lack of predictability or direct connection between what citizens pay (typically through taxes or fees) and the benefits they receive in return. Emergency services, such as fire and police protection, often operate in unpredictable situations where the demand and need for these services can vary greatly. Citizens may pay taxes in anticipation of receiving these emergency services, but the actual benefit might not be apparent or directly correlated with their specific contributions at any given time. This unpredictability can lead to a perception that the relationship between what is paid and what is received is weak or insufficient, thus highlighting a lack of a strong nexus.

In contrast, a direct correlation between taxes and services provided represents a strong nexus, as does easily enforced fees, which create clear expectations of service provision. High levels of citizen participation indicate engagement and potential demand for services but do not directly indicate the strength of the connection between payment and benefits received.