Well, like so many ideas, the implementation is the problem.
There is no magic database of local posts and agencies seeking work. CL probably comes closest, and it has definite problems.
The big play here would be to become the database. We could start a competing listing service that uses geolocation and proximity, is freelancer-friendly, and business-oriented.
I downloaded this app called
Skout which is basically dating/chat. It geolocates, says who is online right now, what they're seeking, etc. I can attest that it works. I've been out with one or two people from it and chatted with more. And considering what a SAP I am, that's a really good result! If we created something like that but for business, I could definitely see some use to it.
Imagine: I need to find a roofer. So I set my "seeking" status to roofing, maybe with a few other filter variables, and wait to be contacted by whoever is actually available right now.
Or: I own a bar and the band just bailed at 3PM. I need to fill it tonight. I fire it up, set band-seeking criteria, and let'er rip.
Or: From the freelancer perspective, you already nailed it: you arrive in town and you're hungry for work. Hop on, put in your "Having" criteria and see what local matches come up. Pay a few pennies to send out a mass-blast to all of them.
I could see that working nicely... I think there is a strong demand for localized business transactions. The proximity tools built into phones would virtually guarantee that you are dealing locally.
You're the visual guy. Care to wireframe that concept? :)