ShareThisMunicipal Law Lecture Series
The Municipal Law Lecture Series consists of three land use lectures held during September and October in six locations throughout the state. These lectures are intended for municipal officials with an interest in, or responsibility for, any aspect of municipal land use, including members of planning boards, zoning boards and conservation commissions, as well as selectmen, councilors, planners, building inspectors and code officers. Lecture participants receive a complimentary copy of the accompanying publication. For a complete list of past lecture topics and to purchase lecture publications, visit the Municipal Law Lectures publications page.
The 2010 Municipal Law Lecture Series is presented in partnership with the New Hampshire Association of Regional Planning Commissions and New Hampshire Planners Association. Lectures are held on Wednesday evenings from 7–9 p.m.
35th Annual Municipal Law Lecture Series
Dates & Locations
September 15, 22, 29
Keene, Meredith and Whitefield
October 13, 20, 27
Derry, Dover and Lebanon
Topics & Presenters
Cell Towers: Managing the Approval Process to Protect Municipal Interests and Comply with Federal Law
Everyone wants service for their cell phones and personal communication devices, but service requires cell towers and equipment, and municipalities often wish to regulate siting and construction. The approval process is subject to both the requirements of state land use law and the federal Telecommunications Act of 1996, plus a recent FCC “shot clock” order that defines a “reasonable” time for local land use boards to process applications. This lecture will explain the provisions of the “shot clock” order, provide a basic understanding of how the federal law relates to state law, and make recommendations on best practices for conducting the approval process.
Presenters: Attorney Sharon Cuddy Somers and Attorney Katherine B. Miller,
Donahue, Tucker & Ciandella, P.L.L.C.
Conflict of Interest, Disqualification and the Local Land Use Board Decision-Making Process
A land use board has its hands full in dealing with a complex, contested case. The board must conduct a fair public hearing, make sure the record is complete, analyze the conflicting evidence and then write a thoughtful decision. All that can go to waste if the board does not accomplish its first task—to make sure none of the members are disqualified by conflict of interest or bias. This two-part lecture will focus first on understanding conflict of interest and disqualification. The second part will deal with the decision-making process, from balancing experts’ opinions with the board’s own special knowledge to writing a solid decision.
Presenters: Attorney David R. Connell and Attorney Kimberly A. Hallquist,
New Hampshire Local Government Center
Administrative Decisions in Planning and Zoning: How They're Made, How They're Appealed
What's the proper role of the administrative official, the zoning board of adjustment and the planning board? When can an administrative official or board change a decision? What constitutes a "final" decision, and how do you get there? This program hones in on the correct pathways for resolving disputes over the interpretation and application of the terms of zoning ordinances and other land use regulations. The wrong procedure results in delays and expensive litigation. The only "right answer" is one that's reached using the right procedure!
Presenters: Attorney H. Bernard Waugh, Jr. and Attorney Shawn M. Tanguay,
Gardner, Fulton & Waugh, P.L.L.C.
Register Today!
Cost: $20 per lecture/$60 for all three. Pre-registration is required.
Registration deadline: One week prior to each event date.
Continuing Legal Education (CLE) credits are available through the New Hampshire Bar Association; American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Law Certification Maintenance credits are available through the New Hampshire Planners Association.
Register online or download our registration brochure to register by mail or fax.
If you have questions or require special accommodations, please call Judy Pearson at 800.852.3358, ext. 150, or e-mail registrations@nhlgc.org.
To view all LGC event specifics, visit our Calendar of Events.