Funhouse Mirrors, hidden entrances, scary entities, the fear of the unknown…Haunted Houses can bring out some of our deepest fears and make us think twice. Just like a Haunted House can make us question what we know, Ethical dilemmas can make us question ourselves and our own moral ambiguity. Public officials and employees must navigate New Jersey’s ethics requirements while responding to increasing fiscal pressures, limited resources, staffing shortages, and heightened public scrutiny. Difficult economic conditions can create ethical challenges, including pressure to favor local businesses or preferred vendors, accept assistance from private entities, pursue outside employment, use government resources for nonpublic purposes, or allow practical considerations to influence official decision-making. We will examine common pitfalls, warning signs, and strategies for addressing difficult situations before they become ethics violations, particularly economic challenges and competing demands create additional pressures for government decision makers. Join us as we help you navigate a scary (maybe not so scary) walk through the Haunted House of Ethical Traps!

Capital planning is critical to any community. This session will focus on one year of improvements, but mostly on reviewing Capital debt and the various forms of debt. Managing debt, which in many communities makes up a significant line item in a budget, is critical. Discussion of review of debt, management and tying this review into plans for the future will be reviewed. Additionally, this session will discuss long term capital improvements and planning. The State of New Jersey requires to demonstrate a 6 year capital plan as a part of the annual budget. Review and methods for financing, integration with grants, budgeting, project management, and setting expectations.