Ethical Planning Practitioner

For planners, the path to a better community is rarely black and white. From accepting a seemingly innocent gift to dealing with conflicting timelines, the profession is filled with ethical dilemmas that require more than just a passing thought. We delve into this complex landscape in our episode, The Ethical Planning Practitioner.

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The episode focuses on the guidebook of the same name by author Jerry Weitz, FAICP. This vital handbook is a practical resource designed to help planners navigate the intricate ethical challenges they face every day. Instead of providing simple answers, the book presents 76 real-life scenarios based on the AICP (American Institute of Certified Planners) Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct.

A key takeaway from the discussion is that ethical planning isn’t just about avoiding clear-cut violations. It's about recognizing the nuances and subtleties that exist in everyday practice. The book offers tools and frameworks for planners to explore these situations, whether on their own or in a training setting, and to think critically about the best course of action. By doing so, the book not only instructs but also inspires planners to uphold the public’s trust.

This episode is an essential guide for anyone in the field, from students preparing for their certification to seasoned professionals. It serves as a reminder that the most effective planners are not just knowledgeable about policy and design, but are also deeply committed to a strong ethical foundation.