In all of the blanket "statements" about SL's Planning Division, I have yet to read a single analysis that sought to explain the issues. What exactly does dysfunctional mean? The planners there were the subject of failed leadership-made to respond to a Planner of the Day idea. Cute, but includes no consideration of the varied skills of each individual, nor the workload on any given day. Of course, customer service can't thrive. If left with no guidance, the staff would have self-selected to send the best person out to handle an inquiry. I've never read anything in the papers that refered to the sick practice of the Council staff in hunting for mistakes and oversights in the division's paperwork. Is that the real reason for the audit? As long as the attitude is "find the scapegoat" nobody can be happy. If everyone just agrees to allow the professionals to present the professional recommendation, life would be good for them. It is when they were asked to justify some preconceived outcome that problems arose. Just don't take their recommendations-that's alright. who cares? Most have taken an oath as certified planners to serve the public and to tell the truth.

Right on Joe Citizen...but there are more parts to the puzzle. Equally important is the ability to serve the public good, all of the public good not just the applicant filing out an application. Maybe part of the solution will be to get back to serving the actual citizens of this town rather than needing to be on the defensive. Good professionals in all walks of life focus on the people they serve meaning you have to like the public and be willing to listen to them. I hope this is part of what will start to happen with the new leadership in place. At present, while the planners are fighting with the leaders and the leaders are trying to solve the problems, the citizens are having trouble being heard. Like in all walks of life it takes giving respect to get respect. No harm intended... Joe citizen...you must be a planner and ofcourse we all hope you are happy but I hope soon you all can get over it already and help the town...we need you.