The researchers used a theoretical model, and an empirical study of the Atlantic City (NJ) region that spanned its pre- and postcasino eras. The net effect is ambiguous. Improved police services means lowered probability of loss due to crime--thus, raise housing demand and increased property values. At the same time, higher real estate taxes induce residents to look for housing elsewhere and cause property values to drop. Another cause for ambiguity is that, beyond some high tax rate, as taxes are increased, police productivity no longer increases proportionately. 4 tables, 34 references