Getting Even
Planning commissions sometimes feel the urge to “get even” with a developer who has “burnt” them in the past. Greg Dale examines the ethical issues involved in getting even.
Ethics & the Planning Commission
These articles and postings provide advice about ethical situations planning commissioners often encounter, including ex-parte contacts, bias, accepting gifts, political influence, and more.
Continue to older articles & posts — or return to newer ones — where you see the green buttons at the bottom of the page.
No Strings Attached?
Has anyone ever offered you a gift or favor because you’re a planning commissioner? asks Greg Dale.
Bending Your Ear
What do you do when you’re asked, confidentially, for advice about a possible rezoning request?
When Information Is In Question
Greg Dale on what to do when you don’t believe what you’re hearing?
Who Do You Work For?
When the Mayor sees you as his voice on the planning commission, what should you do? Greg Dale offers some answers.
The “Riggins Rules”
Suggested do’s and don’ts for the conduct of public hearings, and the deportment of members of boards, commissions, and other bodies — reprinted as written by the late Fred Riggins.
The Commissioner As Applicant
When a commissioner appears before the board as a permit applicant what, asks Greg Dale, should you do?
The Ethics of Bias
Greg Dale on why its important for planning commissioners to be aware of the border between personal values and bias.
The Ghost Commissioner
Greg Dale discusses the dilemma facing planning commissions when they have a frequently absent or unprepared commissioner.
Choice & Opportunity
Is helping to ensure that your zoning code allows for affordable housing one of your ethical obligations as a planning commissioner?
Ex-Parte Contacts
When should you refuse to discuss a matter before your planning board? Greg Dale offers some cautions about ex-parte contacts.
Conflicts of Interest: A First Look
Your spouse hopes for work from a developer, and guess who’s before you for a permit? What should you do? Plus responses to questions from readers regarding conflicts of interest.
