04/08/2026
5/12/26 Ask the Trainers: Spring Planning Q&A
Spring is the season for new ideas, and better answers! This engaging APA-IL program offers a unique opportunity for plan commissioners to connect directly with seasoned planning professionals in a welcoming, conversational setting. Our experienced panel of trainers will field your questions, share practical insights, and help you navigate process concerns, public engagement challenges, and ethical considerations faced by commissions across Illinois.
Who Should Attend
Plan commissioners and anyone interested in sharpening their commission meeting expertise. When you register, please submit 1–2 questions you'd like addressed during the program. This will help our trainers prepare thoughtful, tailored responses. But don’t worry, inspiration can strike at any time! You’re also welcome to bring additional questions to the live session.
Our Spring Panel of Trainers
- Michael Blue, FAICP, Vice President at Teska Associates and former APA-IL Planning Officials Development Officer
- Stephanie Brown, AICP, Associate at Chastain & Associates
- Erin Monforti, Attorney at Ancel Glink
Grab your lunch, bring your curiosity, and join us for a refreshing hour of insight and collaboration.
DATE: May 12, 2026
TIME: 12:00 - 1:00 PM
Registration
- Cost: $25/person
- Groups of 4 or more $20/person - use coupon code FORGRPDISC5 for each attendee registered. If you are registering for a group, you will create an account first then register the attendees.
- Individual Discount: Individual APA-IL Members attending the training get 10% off! Email Paula Freeze at admin@ilapa.org for the coupon code. Click here to become an Illinois Chapter-Only member for just $50/year. Commissioners & board members can be APA-IL members too!
- Need help registering? Click here for a step-by-step guide.
The trainers will welcome attendee questions, but for an in-depth discussion or to have a training session focused on your community's issues, you can consider holding a training in your community. Contact Tom Farace, AICP at podo@ilapa.org to schedule a training.
Professional urban planners and other staff are welcome to attend (no CM will be offered).