Meaningful Dialogue With the Public
By engaging in a true dialogue with the public, you may learn some useful information and actually enjoy the give-and-take.
The Effective Planning Commissioner
Long-time Planning Commissioners Journal and PlannersWeb columnist Elaine Cogan focuses on how planning commissioners can do their job most effectively.
The Endemic Problem of Information Overload
As a planning commissioner, do you sometimes suffer from information overload? Some suggestions for relief.
Visioning Can Be Planning Writ Large
Engaging in a visioning process for your city or town can be an exciting, but challenging, undertaking. A look at the key elements in this process.
Consider the Needs of Generation Xers in Your Public Involvement Strategies
PCJ columnist Elaine Cogan outlines ways of involving younger people in the planning process.
In the Beginning
Why the first few minutes of your planning commission meeting are especially important.
When Major Players Come to Bat
How do you deal with the “major players” in your community when land use issues are at stake?
Variety on the Planning Commission is a Virtue
How wide a net does your commission cast in seeking out new members? asks PCJ columnist Elaine Cogan.
Lighten Up
Being a planning commissioner is a serious job, with serious responsibilities. However, if you take the opportunity to engage your community in stimulating and enjoyable planning exercises, you will find a receptive audience and reap positive results.
When Labels are Counter-Productive
Elaine Cogan considers the wisdom of “labeling” planning board members by their “characteristics.” With responses from our online reviewers.
Enticements Needed to Woo the Public
People are friendlier, to their fellow citizens and to the conveners of meetings, if their stomachs aren’t grumbling. How food can make a difference.
On Gauging Public Opinion
PCJ columnist Elaine Cogan provides an overview of ways by which planning commissions can gauge public opinion.
Breach the Wall of Separation
On how to breach the wall of separation that too often separates planning and school boards.
First on the Agenda is the Agenda!
How much thought goes into your planning board’s agenda? A look at ways of improving your meeting agenda.
