News

The importance of your Zoning Board of Appeals

Published on March 17, 2023
Maintaining a properly organized and functioning Zoning Board of Appeals is critical to ensure the integrity of the board’s decisions and to avoid potentially serious and costly legal issues.
Critical training for Zoning Board of Appeals members

Published on March 17, 2023
Acting properly, a community's Zoning Board of Appeals protects the interests of all parties and upholds due process, but when poorly trained, the board can be a serious legal risk to the community.
Accessory dwelling units – Coming to a neighborhood near you?

Published on September 9, 2022
With interest in urban living on the rise, more communities are considering amending local regulations to allow accessory dwelling units in traditional neighborhoods.
New Commissioner School 2022

Published on August 31, 2022
New Hybrid format available. Flexible self-paced learning and in-person discussion.
The inherent value of a charrette: A discussion with Bill Riddick

Published on March 7, 2022
According to author and facilitator Bill Riddick, charrettes offer transformative opportunities for public engagement and policy-change.
Conflict of interest rules apply to all communities, regardless of size

Published on February 24, 2022
Often a small community struggles to avoid a “conflict of interest” situation – particularly hard because of its small size. But there are not any exceptions or special dispensation due to the size of a community.
Gifts that make an impact

Published on December 9, 2021
Consider giving gifts this holiday season that will keep you out of debt and let someone know you care.
Liu recognized with World Sustainability Award

Published on September 15, 2021
Jack Liu is honored for both groundbreaking work integrating both humans and nature, as well as translating the work into policy and practice.
Our Planning Commission has a vacancy, now what?

Published on September 1, 2021
The correct way to address a vacancy of a position on the board is through the bylaws.
CSUS alumnus spotlight: Ted Alter

Published on August 30, 2021
“Lead in whatever you’re doing by making it possible for others to lead.” Ted reflects on his experiences as an interdisciplinary researcher, educator, and academic administrator at Penn State University for over 45 years.