Officials Topical Series

Learn New Ideas

Co-Sponsor: Lincoln Institute of Land Policy

In addition to the live program, attendees have access to a special website with reading materials, technical briefs on the topic, PowerPoint note sheets, and a downloadable PowerPoint presentation. All attendees may ask questions of the speakers. Registered sites can also choose to receive the program on CD-ROM (Option B).

Staying Out of Court by Avoiding Pitfalls
November 7, 2007, 4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. ET

Conflicts of interest are an ever-present concern for planning commissioners, board members, and their staff. Not understanding the law can lead to trouble. But what constitutes a conflict? What is an acceptable way to obtain necessary information? How should commissioners interact (or not interact) with developers, home owners, concerned citizens, staff, and other public officials? Find out what the legal requirements for planning commissions are in various states. Master the rules concerning ex parte communication. Pick up tips on meeting management and the review process and learn how other commissions use administrative rules of procedure to keep themselves out of court.

Confronting NIMBYs
March 19, 2008, 4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. ET

"Not in my back yard" is a cry heard cross the country. Yet communities must provide for unpopular uses as mandated by law. Presenters discuss both the ever-evolving nature of NIMBYism and the legal requirements related to NIMBYs. This introduction is followed by discussions of how to place unpopular uses and how to regulate them to lessen negative impacts. You will gain insights into how to work with the community to accommodate difficult uses, address public anger, and keep everyone apprised of acceptable solutions and legal responsibilities.