Most planning commissioners are inundated with piles of documents, many written in legal or planning jargon. While you cannot act responsibly if you do not read this material carefully, you shortchange yourself if you base your opinions only on written information.
You can add richly to your store of knowledge if you are willing to exchange ideas freely -- among commissioners, between commissioners and staff, and with the public. However, the benefit from such verbal interchange can be impaired if you do not listen with an open and receptive attitude.
Do you "really" hear all sides? Do you automatically assume that a developer is motivated only by greed when he proposes to cut down an ancient tree, or that an environmentalist has no concerns about economic growth when advocating saving a wetland. A "guilty before proven" attitude prevents you from understanding others' points of view and adding to your understanding of complex issues.
Does your body language reveal your real thoughts? There are many non-verbal ways to express yourself that belie "nice" or friendly words. Among these signals are frowning, rolling your eyes, and inattentiveness. If your actions do not complement your words, people may become resentful and angry, thus preventing free and open dialogue.
Do you state your opinions so strongly that you discourage others from disagreeing? In most conversations, you gain an advantage if you use a conciliatory tone of voice, such as, "It seems to me," or "As I look at the situation." There may be times you have to express your position in unequivocal terms, but, if you are willing to be open-minded most of the time, people will listen and take notice when you do feel strongly or uncompromisingly about an issue.
Is your tone of voice sarcastic or angry? No matter what you say, how you say it is very important. Avoid talking in such a way that others will feel compelled to side with someone just because you are insulting or demeaning.
Are you reluctant to say, "I don't know"? These three little words show you are willing to admit fallibility and take responsibility for it. To have genuine credibility, however, the admittance should be followed up with, "But I will find out for you." Then, make sure you do.
Do you hold a monologue or a dialogue? This is perhaps the most important aspect of good communication. In a true dialogue, you listen carefully to what the other person is saying and respond appropriately. It is still another signal you realize you are not always the repository of truth and goodness.
Elaine Cogan is a partner in the Portland, Oregon, planning and communications firm of Cogan Owens Cogan. Her column, "The Effective Planning Commissioner," regularly appears in the