Behind the Scenes Advocacy
When planning commissioners become “behind the scenes” advocates. Some cautionary advice from Greg Dale.
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.
Most Recent Articles
The Cheese-Counter Encounter
You’re doing some shopping. While waiting to buy some cheese, a fellow planning commissioners spots you and wants to discuss an application before the commission for decision. What should you do?
Are Your Procedures Fair?
Greg Dale explores why fairness may require more than the legal minimum.
“Ma’am, We’re Here for You.”
Just who does the planning commission serve? — Applicants? Citizens opposing a project? The “public”? We resume our ethics & the planning commission series with a look at this question.
Talking Behind the Public’s Back – The Ex-Parte Problem
Ted Shekell discusses ex-parte communications — and poses a brief hypothetical situation for your consideration.
Considering the Regional Impacts of Local Actions
Do we have an ethical responsibility to take into account the regional impacts of local land use decisions?
Revisiting Ex Parte Contacts
Just about every planning commission at some time faces questions about ex parte contacts. Greg Dale explains why ex parte contacts can cause problems and how to avoid common pitfalls.
Who Shall Serve? Public Interest vs. Special Interest
Is it appropriate for citizens who have represented “special interest” groups to serve on local planning boards? Greg Dale considers the ethical dimensions of this question.
It’s All Relative
Greg Dale explains why “it’s all relative” in his article on conflict of interest situations involving family members.
Making Your Opinion Known
Are there any constraints on when a planning board member can speak out publicly as an individual, rather than as a representative of the board? Greg Dale looks at some political and ethical considerations.
Site Visits: Necessary But Tricky
Site visits can result in ex-parte contacts, since they occur outside the public forum. It’s important for planning commissions and commissioners to think through how best to conduct a site visit.
Independent and Informed
PCJ columnist Greg Dale explains why it’s critical that planning commissioners be independent and informed when reviewing development applications.
Caution: Conflicts of Interest
Greg Dale tells how conflicts of interest created a stir in one New England community. With suggestions on how to be proactive in dealing with conflict situations.
