Final answer:
Ethnic political machines like Tammany Hall addressed constituents' immediate problems quickly in exchange for votes, but were also marked by graft, corruption, and higher taxes. Progressive reforms later sought to challenge their power by implementing merit-based governance and diminishing big business influence.
Step-by-step explanation:
The limitations and achievements of urban governments run by ethnic political machines like Tammany Hall in New York were quite significant. One of the most notable achievements was that these machines provided timely solutions to constituents' problems, such as the need for sidewalks or sanitation. Store owners, for example, could approach their district captain, who would then speak to the boss. The boss would expedite the construction by using city funds, swayed by the promise of votes, although often at inflated costs and involving graft.
However, the limitations of these machines were marked by widespread corruption, which included the awarding of city contracts at exorbitant costs with kickbacks to machine bosses. This led to higher city taxes as indicated by an exam question with the correct answer being 'B. Taxpayers ultimately paid higher city taxes due to graft.' Additionally, these machines often reinforced the power of a select few and could deepen class inequalities as they might prioritize certain districts over others, especially where they could secure more votes.
The political machines were eventually challenged by Progressive Era reforms which sought to dismantle their control, promote a merit-based system for public service jobs, and reduce the influence of big business in local politics. Through restructuring local governance with city commissioners and managers, urban areas began to provide more equitable public services and utilities.