These two cities are located one mile apart, separated by a river and an international boundary. In 1950 City A was one of the richest cities in the US in terms of per capita income. The population was approaching 2 million. It really was a shining city on a hill, a great example of how capitalism can enrich everyone who wants to participate.
Located at the end of the railroad line it City B became a manufacturing hub during the war because of its proximity to City A. It shared in the postwar boom but was always a poor sister. A corrupt local government and a retail sector held back by City A's vibrant retail trade stilted growth. City B's population was roughly 15% of City A's in 1950.
Flash forward 60 odd years. City A has been racked by government corruption and solid liberal/socialist rule for all this time. The city workforce has multiplied while the population has dwindled to about 700,000. The police force doesn't respond to 911 calls and crime is totally out of control. The previous mayor is in jail on numerous charges. The school system graduates illiterates as a routine matter. The city is bankrupt, although you wouldn't know it by listening to its present crop of politicians.
While City A was losing people, City B has more than doubled in population. As for crime, City B recently recorded a 27 month period without a single homicide. It's public school system is very good. One public high school draws international students because of its math program. The current mayor is a businessman who is highly oriented towards drawing investment to the city. Last year he basically broke the back of city labor unions over pension issues. The part time city council meets once a week.
I've given you enough clues to figure out where these cities are. Freepmail me if you want the names.
City B has a ballet, right?