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Zoning Ethics

During a zoning and/or land development proceeding there are sometimes claims raised by parties concerning conflicts of interest or bias exhibited by the parties involved. A State’s Ethics Act addresses claims of conflict of interest. Allegations of bias towards one party implicate due process and civil rights concerns.

In zoning & land development matters, the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (MPC) requires municipalities to exercise good faith when processing and reviewing subdivision and land development plan applications.

The webinar will explore three common claims raised during zoning and land development proceedings: conflicts of interest; bias; and bad faith. An overview of the zoning and land development process; the roles of the governing body, township engineer, zoning officer and zoning hearing board in the process; offer practical guidance on how to avoid claims of conflicts of interest, bias and bad faith; and provide an update on recent legal decisions that impact zoning and land development decisions.

The speakers will also discuss the impact of abstentions on voting and the appointment of special counsel to represent the interests of the Township and/or planning commission on zoning matters before the Board of Supervisors.

Approved for  1.50 CM Ethics credit 

More information contact Peter Wulfhorst, 570-296-3400.