Pretest Questions Flashcards

Question 1

Q

The case of Mugler v. Kansas found that while a person has the right to make alcohol for their own use, such a right can be conditioned on its effect on others. Which constitutional principle was tested in this case?

Select one:

a.
First Amendment

b.
14th Amendment

c.
Fifth Amendment

d.
Second Amendment

Answer

A

The US Supreme Court found that a Kansas prohibition law did not infringe on 14th Amendment rights and that the state legislature may exercise police powers.
The correct answer is: 14th Amendment

Question 2

Q

Which of the following amendments to the United States Constitution prohibits governments from taking private property without just compensation?
Select one:

a.
First

b.
Second

c.
Fifth

d.
Fourteenth

Answer

A

The Fifth Amendment provides that “No person shall be…deprived of…property, without due process of law; nor shall private property be taken for public use without just compensation”.
The correct answer is: Fifth

Question 3

Q

As a borderlands planner, you are working on a joint development proposal between a community in Texas and Mexico. The development proposal is presented in hectares. You are trying to calculate the project to ensure it meets the US side zoning regulations. How many acres are in one hectare?

Select one:

a.
2.47

b.
2.48

c.
2.49

d.
2.50

Answer

A

A hectare is a metric unit of square measure. There are 2.47 acres in a hectare.

The correct answer is: 2.47

Question 4

Q

As a borderlands planner, you are working on a joint development proposal between a community in Texas and Mexico. The development proposal is presented in hectares. You are trying to calculate the project to ensure it meets the US side zoning regulations. How many acres are in one hectare?

Select one:

a.
2.47

b.
2.48

c.
2.49

d.
2.50

Answer

A

A hectare is a metric unit of square measure. There are 2.47 acres in a hectare.

The correct answer is: 2.47

Question 5

Q

As a planner for the regional planning agency, you are working on a food systems plan. You want to emphasize the importance of agricultural land to support the region’s food needs. You report that on a per household basis: it takes ________ acres of land to feed the U.S. population.

Select one:

a.
2 acres

b.
10 acres

c.
25 acres

d.
34 acres

Answer

A

Two acres is sufficient to feed a household of four using the bio-intensive method of agriculture.
The correct answer is: 2 acres

Question 6

Q

Over the last 30 years, a commercial district has fallen into serious disrepair. You are working with neighborhood leaders to encourage conversion of underutilized commercial buildings to housing in this historic area. Which would be the best to encourage?

Select one:

a.
Demolition

b.
Historic Tax Credit Incentives

c.
Historic Restoration

d.
Adaptive reuse

Answer

A

Adaptive reuse is a process that adapts buildings for new uses while retaining their historic features.
The correct answer is: Adaptive reuse

Question 7

Q

As a growing suburban community, your city has had a difficult time keeping up with the demand for infrastructure. The City Council has asked you, as Planning Director, to come up with a plan to reduce the number of lots that become buildable each year. Which of the following techniques would be most appropriate to recommend?

Select one:

a.
Adequate public facilities ordinance

b.
Planned unit development

c.
Transfer of development rights

d.
Building permit moratorium

Answer

A

A public facilities ordinance allows the city to determine when infrastructure will be extended and maintain an adequate level of service. New building permits would not be issued unless the infrastructure is adequate.
The correct answer is: Adequate public facilities ordinance

Question 8

Q

Which of the following measures is the most commonly used for traffic volume?
Select one:

a.
VPM

b.
Vehicles per trip

c.
ADT

d.
LOS

Answer

A

Average daily traffic (ADT) volume is the number of vehicles that travel on a road in a typical day.
The correct answer is: ADT

Question 9

Q

As a resident of a struggling neighborhood, you want to make sure the homes around you are kept up. After your neighbor moved out, you start by mowing the lawn and generally keeping up the property. Over time you take occupancy of the property, making repairs, and allowing your son to live in the home. You then continuously occupy the property for a period of ten years. You decide that you want to have the property legally transferred into your name, and you put forward the argument that you are legally entitled to this property. This is known as:

Select one:

a.
Adverse possession

b.
Adverse abandonment

c.
Squatting

d.
Homesteading

Answer

A

Adverse possession is a method of acquiring title to a property by possession for a period of time, based on statute. Squatters rights are a specific form of adverse possession. Squatters typically do not have a right to the title of the property but cannot be removed without due process. While homesteading occurs when the land has no legal owner or is owned by the government, the government allows homesteading with an expectation that the person occupying the property will undertake specific actions to gain the title. Adverse abandonment is associated with acquiring land abandoned by a railroad.
The correct answer is: Adverse possession

Question 10

Q

You are the Director of Planning for a neighborhood planning agency. You are responsible for organizing an advisory committee that will provide comments to the city on plans for redevelopment in the neighborhood. Who should be on this committee?

I. Neighborhood residents
II. Neighborhood business owners
III. Developers

Select one:

a.
I only

b.
II only

c.
I and II only

d.
I, II, and III

Answer

A

Involving all stakeholders is important in this type of planning process.
The correct answer is: I, II, and III

Question 11

Q

Advocacy planning did which of the following:
Select one:

a.
Assisted low-income people in getting off welfare

b.
Increased environmental regulations

c.
Stopped urban renewal

d.
Moved planning into the public eye

Answer

A

Advocacy planning brought planning into the public eye and assisted in recognizing the different needs of interest groups in the community.
The correct answer is: Moved planning into the public eye

Question 12

Q

The Mayor is concerned about the affordability of housing in the city. She has asked you to undertake a study of housing in the city. As part of the report, which would be the best way to represent an affordability index?

Select one:

a.
The ratio of housing mortgages to mortgage defaults

b.
A series of indicators, such as days on market, median sales price, and number of people applying for housing support

c.
The ratio of median housing price to median income

d.
The ratio of median home sales price to median salary for jobs in the city

Answer

A

The Mayor is concerned about the affordability of housing in the city. She has asked you to undertake a study of housing in the city. As part of the report, which would be the best way to represent an affordability index?

Select one:

a.
The ratio of housing mortgages to mortgage defaults

b.
A series of indicators, such as days on market, median sales price, and number of people applying for housing support

c.
The ratio of median housing price to median income

d.
The ratio of median home sales price to median salary for jobs in the city

Question 13

Q

You are the Planning Director for a large city in Kansas. You are responsible for preparing a staff report for an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan that would allow affordable, multi-family housing in the downtown area. You are charged with providing compelling reasons for the council to approve the amendment.

Which of the following would you NOT include in your staff report?
Select one:

a.
Discuss the need for affordable housing and requirements under state law to provide for affordable housing

b.
Discuss the need for affordable housing to be located close to downtown jobs

c.
Discuss the need for affordable housing that is located near good public transportation connections

d.
Discuss how building affordable housing will attract more low-income people to live in the city

Answer

A

If you are trying to encourage affordable housing explaining that it will attract more low-income residents feeds into a fear, rather than supports positive reasons to build more affordable housing.
The correct answer is: Discuss how building affordable housing will attract more low-income people to live in the city

Question 14

Q

Which is a true statement about local planning agency management?

a.
The accreditation of planning departments would serve little purpose and is not really necessary

b.
Planning department accreditation has been around since the 1920s, and most planning departments are now accredited

c.
Most planning departments are now working on accreditation, via promotion by the APA’s federal accreditation working group

d.
Formalized accreditation programs do not yet exist for planning departments

Answer

A

In PAS Report 582, “Local Planning Agency Management”, the authors argue that there is a need for professional accreditation of planning agencies. The report notes that accreditation already exists for park and recreation agencies, police departments, public health departments, and public schools.
The correct answer is:
Formalized accreditation programs do not yet exist for planning departments

Question 15

Q

One of the most widely written about demographic trends in the U.S. is that the population is aging. Which statement is most accurate about the population of older adults – those aged over 65?

Select one:

a.
The aging of America is fueled by more than 70 million baby boomers

b.
Their population will increase from 10% to 40% by 2030

c.
The population of older adults is increasing, but not as rapidly as previously thought

d.
Their population will increase from 10% to 30% by 2030

Answer

A

America is aging. Older adults — 65 and over — represent 13 percent of the population today. By 2030, one in every five people (20%) living in the US will be over the age of 65. This aging of America is fueled by 72 million baby boomers aging through the life cycle in combination with a profound increase in longevity.
The correct answer is: The aging of America is fueled by more than 70 million baby boomers

Question 16

Q

Agins v. City of Tiburon established that a regulation is a taking if :

I. The regulation deprives a property of all its economically viable uses.
II. The regulation fails to advance a legitimate governmental interest.
III. The regulation temporarily deprives a property of an economically viable use.
IV. The regulation is not connected to the use of the land.
Select one:

a.
I only

b.
I and II only

c.
I and III only

d.
I, II, III, and IV

Answer

A

A regulation is a taking if it deprives the property of all economic value and does not advance a governmental interest. A temporary deprivation does not cause a taking.
The correct answer is: I and II only

Question 17

Q

You work for the federal government and are focused on managing agricultural lands. You are preparing a report about land use generally in the U.S. and the role of agriculture in the United States. Which of the following is true?

Select one:

a.
Small family farms account for 50 percent of all U.S. farms.

b.
Agriculture is the most frequent use of land in the United States with 1/2 of land used for crops and about 1/4 used for livestock grazing.

c.
Agriculture is the most frequent use of land in the United States with 1/5 of land used for crops and just under 1/3 used for livestock grazing.

d.
The amount of total land devoted to agricultural use continues to increase in the U.S. although the number of farms is declining.

Answer

A

The U.S. EPA reports on major trends in agriculture. Agriculture is the most frequent use of land in the United States with 1/5 of land used for crops and just under 1/3 used for livestock grazing. Because of urbanization the amount of land in agriculture is declining and there is a trend towards larger farm operations. Small family farms (less than $350,000 in GCFI) account for 90 percent of all U.S. farms.
The correct answer is: Agriculture is the most frequent use of land in the United States with 1/5 of land used for crops and just under 1/3 used for livestock grazing.

Question 18

Q

As the county’s economic development director you are looking for creative solutions to promote economic development in this largely agricultural county. You have convened a group of farmers to promote agritourism. Which of the following would be most effective?
Select one:

a.
Encourage farmers along a key accessible corridor to collaborate on adding complementary agritourism activities to create a day trip to attract families from the adjacent metropolitan area.

b.
Invite farmers from across the county to create agritourism activities and then offer to have the county pay for advertising in targeted markets.

c.
Offer a small grant to any farmer that would like to experiment with agritourism, to support the initial startup costs.

d.
Have the county create and operate an agritourism center at the County fairgrounds to attract tourists to visit the county.

Answer

A

Effective agritourism attracts consumers who wish to experience agriculture. Joint marketing and planning can expand the impact of agritourism in a community. In this case, encouraging direct economic benefit to farmers will be key, as well as having a clear destination for visitors.
The correct answer is: Encourage farmers along a key accessible corridor to collaborate on adding complementary agritourism activities to create a day trip to attract families from the adjacent metropolitan area.

Question 19

Q

As a planner for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, you are responsible for air pollution management planning. You are coordinating with the state to ensure that there is coordination among the various local and regional plans as part of the state air pollution implementation plan. In your review, which of the following would you expect to be integrated?

Select one:

A.
Regional Transportation Plans and Regional Transportation Improvement Programs

B.
Regional Solid Waste Management Plans

C.
Air Quality Control Plans

D.
Regional hazardous waste mitigation

Answer

A

States are required to develop a state implementation plan (SIP) for air quality. These air quality plans must include the following: Provisions for ozone nonattainment areas, provisions for carbon monoxide nonattainment areas, provisions for particulate matter nonattainment, and provisions for designated nonattainment for sulfur oxides, nitrogen dioxide, or lead. Transportation is a major source of air pollution—for example carbon monoxide, which is required to be addressed as part of the state implementation plan. Regional transportation plans and improvement programs would be expected to be included in an SIP.

More information here: https://www.epa.gov/air-quality-implementation-plans/develop-air-quality-sip.
The correct answer is: Regional Transportation Plans and Regional Transportation Improvement Programs

Question 20

Q

Who was the first president of the American Society of Planning Officials?
Select one:

a.
Alfred Bettman

b.
Saul Alinsky

c.
Lewis Mumford

d.
Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr.

Answer

A

Alfred Bettman was the first president of ASPO. Alfred Bettman (1873-1945) was one of the key founders of modern urban planning. Zoning, as we know it today, can be attributed to his successful arguments before the U.S. Supreme Court, which resulted in the 1926 decision in favor of the Village of Euclid, Ohio versus Ambler Realty Company. The concept of the “Comprehensive Plan,” as used in most cities across the U.S., was in no small part due to the work of Bettman and Ladislas Segoe on the “Cincinnati Plan.” Communities of all sizes across the U.S. may also thank Bettman for his part in creating the “Capital Improvements Budget.”
The correct answer is: Alfred Bettman

Question 21

Q

As the city’s accessibility coordinator you are preparing educational materials to provide to your citywide team in preparation for an audit of all city facilities. Your goal for the training is to make sure that the city employees understand the history and context in which the audit is being conducted. Which of the following statements correctly summarizes ADA history?

Select one:

a.
ADA passed in 1990 and was significantly amended in 2008. Current regulations are set in the 2010 Standards for Accessible Design, which replaced standards set in 1991.

b.
ADA passed in 1994 and has not been significantly amended since. Current regulations provide guidance for newly designed and constructed commercial residences.

c.
ADA passed in 1996 and was significantly amended in 2010. Current regulations are set in the 2012 Standards for Accessible Design.

d.
ADA passed in 1992 and has not been significantly amended since. Current regulations provide guidance for newly designed and constructed private residences.

Answer

A

The Americans with Disabilities Act passed in 1990. The ADA Amendments Act of 2008 overturned two controversial Supreme Court decisions and made the scope of the ADA more broad and inclusive. The 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design set minimum requirements for newly designed and constructed or altered state and local government facilities, public accommodations, and commercial facilities to be readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities.

The correct answer is: ADA passed in 1990 and was significantly amended in 2008. Current regulations are set in the 2010 Standards for Accessible Design, which replaced standards set in 1991.

Question 22

Q

Amitai Etzioni proposed which of the following theories?
Select one:

a.
Radical

b.
Rational

c.
Incremental

d.
Mixed scanning

Answer

A

Etzioni proposed mixed scanning.
The correct answer is: Mixed scanning

Question 23

Q

You manage the site plan review process for the city of Plannersville. You have received a complete submission for a site plan for a 120 unit apartment complex on 15 acres. In reviewing the site plan you are looking for all of the following except:
Select one:

a.
Rent to be charged

b.
Zoning of the property

c.
Location of the site

d.
Location of stormwater drainage

Answer

A

Rental rates are irrelevant to a site plan review.
The correct answer is: Rent to be charged

Question 24

Q

When using ArcGIS, a planner can obtain mapping data from which of the following sources?

Select one:

a.
ESRI

b.
US Census Bureau

c.
US Geological Survey

d.
All of these choices are valid

Answer

A

Mapping data is available from numerous sources; for example, the Census, United States Geological Survey, and ESRI offer mapping data.

The correct answer is: All of these choices are valid

Question 25

Q

Which of the following statements is true regarding regional planning agencies?

Select one:

a.
A regional planning agency is set up as a separate unit of government

b.
Area wide planning organizations are not a separate layer of government

c.
Regional planning agencies are responsible for wetlands permitting

d.
There is a strong tradition of regional governance in the U.S.

Answer

A

Area wide planning organizations are not a separate layer of government. A regional planning agency develops regional plans and reviews regional impacts and projects. In some cases a local government may transfer some local government powers to a regional agency, but that is not usually the case.
The correct answer is: Area wide planning organizations are not a separate layer of government

Question 26

Q

Which of the following would a planner be least likely to use in their role in working for the U.S. Army as a planner?
Select one:

a.
Joint Land Use Studies

b.
Section 8 Vouchers

c.
Air Installation Compatible Use Zones

d.
Base Realignment and Closure Act

Answer

A

Section 8 vouchers are associated with providing housing subsidies for low-income people. This is not specific to a military base. BRAC refers to congressional actions that streamline military base operations. Air Installation Compatible Use Zones address land use coordination with local governments around the base. Joint Land Use Studies are a joint planning effort between active military installations, surrounding communities and other agencies.
The correct answer is: Section 8 Vouchers

Question 27

Q

An arterial street…
Select one:

a.
limits access.

b.
provides grade separations at intersections.

c.
connects employees to their places of employment.

d.
does not provide access to adjacent properties.

Answer

A

An arterial street limits direct access to homes and businesses.
The correct answer is: limits access.

Question 28

Q

What is the historical relationship between the American Society of Planning Officials, the American Institute of Planners, and the American Planning Association?
Select one:

a.
The ASPO was disbanded in the 1930s. It was replaced by the APA. In the 1960s the AIP and the APA merged.

b.
The APA was formed in the late 1970s when the AIP and ASPO consolidated. The AIP first started in 1917 as the American City Planning Institute until it was renamed in 1939.

c.
The AIP was the first organization to be established until it was replaced by the ASPO. The ASPO was then replaced by the APA in the 1970s.

d.
The APA was established in 1909. It went through various names changes, including at one time AIP and later the ASPO.

Answer

A

In 1978, the American Planning Association was created from the consolidation of the American Institute of Planners (AIP) and the American Society of Planning Officials (ASPO). AIP was incorporated in 1917 as the American City Planning Institute and renamed the AIP in 1939. ASPO was established in 1939.
The correct answer is: The APA was formed in the late 1970s when the AIP and ASPO consolidated. The AIP first started in 1917 as the American City Planning Institute until it was renamed in 1939.

Question 29

Q

Associated Home Builders of Greater East Bay v. City of Livermore dealt with which of the following issues?
Select one:

a.
Timing of Development

b.
Eminent Domain

c.
Freedom of Speech

d.
Exactions

Answer

A

The Associated Home Builders case was related to when building permits could be developed based on the availability of infrastructure.
The correct answer is: Timing of Development

Question 30

Q

As the Economic Development Planner for your region, you are interested in attracting e-commerce firms. After researching what e-commerce firms need, you realize you need to create an effective marketing package. Which of the following would be least likely to be useful in marketing?

Select one:

a.
A large university in the region with a well-known design program

b.
Significant utility competition

c.
A vibrant downtown with an active nightlife

d.
Technology ready suburban office parks

Answer

A

E-commerce companies need a well-educated workforce with web design skills. They prefer a region with utility competition, which results in lower costs for internet service. They prefer downtown offices and their workforce wants vibrant urban scenes and active nightlife.

The correct answer is: Technology ready suburban office parks

Question 31

Q

As part of a capital improvements planning process, you have been hosting a series of town hall-style meetings. Recently the meetings have been taken over by a small group of citizens associated with the Tea Party. You are looking at how you can make sure all voices are heard as you plan for the next round of engagement meetings. Which of the following tools would be most effective in ensuring that you maximize participation of those in attendance?

Select one:

a.
Audience Response System

b.
Dot Voting

c.
Design Charrette

d.
Visual Preference Survey

Answer

A

ARS is an instant polling software used in conjunction with a slide presentation. A USB receiver/base station retrieves the data provided by an audience using wireless hand-held devices and stores this information on the presenter’s computer. Some ARS programs offer the option of participating in the process via personal cellular phones or laptop computers. The most obvious benefit of ARS is the chance to receive instant and accurate feedback from the audience. This feedback is assumed to represent honest opinions because the answers are sent anonymously.

The correct answer is: Audience Response System

Question 32

Q

In a newly annexed area there is a desire by a developer to include a rural subdivision. The proposed development area has a portion in wetlands. In your review of the subdivision plat, you are concerned about the use of septic tanks given the proximity of the wetlands. You ask the developer to provide evidence that the soil is suitable for septic tanks and request that the public health department provide feedback.
Select one:

a.
The developer submits the results of a fertility test

b.
The developer submits the results of a nitrate test

c.
The development submits the results of a permeability test

d.
The developer submits the results of an auger test

Answer

A

An auger can be used to retrieve soil samples and then examined for the soil profiles.
The correct answer is: The developer submits the results of an auger test

Question 33

Q

Which of the following would NOT be used to graphically compare two sets of data?
Select one:

a.
Line graph

b.
Bell curve

c.
Bar graph

d.
Scatter plot

Answer

A

A bell curve would not be used to graphically compare two sets of data.
The correct answer is: Bell curve

Question 34

Q

Which of the following is an eminent domain case?
Select one:

A.
Euclid v. Ambler Realty

B.
Construction Industry of Sonoma County v. City of Petaluma

C.
Berman v. Parker

D.
Village of Belle Terre v. Boraas
This is a first and 14th amendment case dealing with freedom of association.

Answer

A

Berman v. Parker upheld the use of eminent domain for aesthetic purposes.
The correct answer is: Berman v. Parker

Question 35

Q

There has been recent heated debate on social media with citizens desiring that bikes get off the streets. Some of the citizens are arguing that they are the ones paying for the streets, but the bicyclists.

As part of the complete streets task force you are working on developing talking points that help explain clearly how streets are paid for. You want to combat the perception that bicyclists are free riders.

The free rider problem is encountered when:

Select one:

a.
All individuals are willing to pay for what they consume

b.
An individual pays more than their fair share of the cost of a public good

c.
All individuals who consume a public good pay for it

d.
Someone benefits from the consumption of a public good without paying their full share

Answer

A

In economics, the free rider problem refers to a situation where some individuals in a population either consume more than their fair share of a common resource, or pay less than their fair share of the cost of a common resource.
The correct answer is: Someone benefits from the consumption of a public good without paying their full share

Question 36

Q

The state planning association has been working with the legislature to explain the value of land use controls. A representative has decided to put forward a bill that would expand the planner’s ability to engage in land use controls. The state planning association is closely following the process. The bill has just been voted on and approved in the house. What happens next?

Select one:

a.
The bill is signed by the House Speaker.

b.
The bill is then sent to the Senate where it will be introduced by the Senate Speaker.

c.
The bill is signed by the Governor and becomes a law.

d.
The bill is referred to a House committee for review.

Answer

A

After a bill has been voted on and approved by one side of the legislature, in this case, the House, then it would be referred to the Senate. The bill is then introduced by the Senate Speaker, referred to a committee, and then goes through the legislative review process before it can be voted on and ultimately signed by the Governor.

The correct answer is: The bill is then sent to the Senate where it will be introduced by the Senate Speaker

Question 37

Q

The city of Plannersville has recently passed a law prohibiting any new billboards within the city limits. However, the new law has not solved the problem of existing billboards. The Planning Director is considering amortizing billboards over a three-year period. After consulting the state law, the Planning Director discovers that nonconforming uses that are not in use for a period of two or more years may then be regulated. Would the proposed billboard regulations be legal? Choose one answer.
Select one:

a.
The state law does not specifically apply to billboards, and the ordinance would be legal.

b.
The ordinance would trigger numerous variance applications and cause an administrative headache, but would be legal.

c.
The ordinance is legal, and the new requirements would cause the current billboards to stop being used.

d.
The state law would require that billboard advertising be discontinued for two years before the amortization period would start, and the ordinance as proposed would be illegal.

Answer

A

Local jurisdictions seeking to remove billboards can pass an ordinance that requires the removal of billboards by a given time, a process known as amortization. States set the rules for amortization. In this case, the Planning Director’s proposal is not in sync with state law.

The correct answer is: The state law would require that billboard advertising be discontinued for two years before the amortization period would start, and the ordinance as proposed would be illegal.

Question 38

Q

The Mayor of your community has asked the planning department to come up with a simple way to gauge whether residents approve of the city’s new recycling program. There is a very limited budget, and a survey has been devised asking residents to respond “yes” or “no” on the city’s website. Is this an example of a binary variable?

Select one:

a.
No, because binary variables can only have positive values.

b.
No, because binary variables can have multiple values.

c.
Yes, because binary variables have only two different values.

d.
No, because “yes” and “no” questions have nothing to do with binary variables.

Answer

A

Binary variables can only take on two values, and are typically represented as 0 and 1. They are used for variables for which there are only two possible outcomes, such as male or female or yes or no.
The correct answer is: Yes, because binary variables have only two different values.

Question 39

Q

A local group is petitioning the city to focus on biophilic design. You create a presentation for the city council about biophilic design. Which characteristic are you least likely to include?
Select one:

a.
Stormwater reuse irrigation

b.
Multimodal transportation options

c.
Dynamic artificial lighting

d.
Natural attributes in buildings

Answer

A

Biophilic Design brings humans and nature together through sustainable strategies, which can include lighting, ventilation, natural elements, and access to water.
The correct answer is: Multimodal transportation options

Question 40

Q

How is brainstorming as a method for public participation used in the planning process?

I.Getting a sense for what agencies want to accomplish together
II. Identifying the measurable improvements that will be achieved through working together
III. Informally gathering input in the initial stages of a project
IV. Preparing survey questions for the public

Answer

A

Options I, II, & III are all listed in PAS Report 539-540 as key elements of the brainstorming process to assist groups in working together and identifying key goals for the planning process. Option IV is not a part of the brainstorming process.
The correct answer is:
I, II, & III

Question 41

Q

Recently cities have undertaken efforts, known as __________, in order to create a specific image of a city that is embedded in the minds of the public.
Select one:

a.
Marketing

b.
Consulting

c.
Branding

d.
Gazing

Answer

A

In order to help make cities unique and competitive in the global economy cities have undertaken branding efforts.
The correct answer is: Branding

Question 42

Q

How might someone use bridging to communicate a clear message to the public?

a.
Transitional phrase to stay on message when the question could take you off topic.

b.
A startling statistic to reinforce the main point.

c.
Joining an ongoing conversation on social media to increase public understanding of key issues.

d.
An infographic to engage the public.

Answer

A

Bridging is used to bring the conversation back to the central message when questions take you off topic.
The correct answer is:
Transitional phrase to stay on message when the question could take you off topic.

Question 43

Q

As a planner in an urban city you have a number of abandoned industrial sites. In your comprehensive plan, you refer to these sites as:
Select one:

a.
Brownfields

b.
Grayfields

c.
None of these

d.
Greenfields

Answer

A

Brownfields are contaminated industrial sites.
Greenfields refer to land that is not currently used for development.
Grayfields are former development sites that are not contaminated.

The correct answer is: Brownfields

Question 44

Q

You have a written a proposed stream corridor protection ordinance which calls for a 50 foot setback from all stream corridors. As part of the staff report for the draft ordinance you want to include a map that illustrates the ordinance. To create the map you use a:
Select one:

a.
Census

b.
Polygon

c.
Vector

d.
Buffer

Answer

A

A buffer is a reclassification based on distance. Buffering measures distance outward in directions from an object, in this case a stream. Buffering can be done on three types of vector data - point, line, area.
The correct answer is: Buffer

Question 45

Q

The city requires a building permit before construction can begin. This is an exercise of:
Select one:

a.
eminent domain

b.
land use planning

c.
police power

d.
subdivision regulation

Answer

A

Police Power is the power of a government to impose what it considers reasonable restrictions on the liberties of its citizens for the maintenance of public order and safety. In the case of a building permit this is ensuring the safety of citizens.
The correct answer is: police power

Question 46

Q

The downtown businesses owners have been repeatedly complaining to the city council to do something about the homeless on the street panhandling, the trash, and the general dirty appearance along the sidewalk. The City Council president has directed the planning staff to find a solution to this problem. After significant research you have come up with what you believe is the best solution. Which of the following is most appropriate?
Select one:

a.
Work with social service agencies to place the panhandlers in jobs

b.
Pass an ordinance preventing loitering

c.
Implement a Business Improvement District

d.
Form a neighborhood block watch

Answer

A

All of the choices are possibilities and could be used to support an effort to improve downtown. The best choice is to implement a Business Improvement District, which would provide funds to clean the sidewalks, police the streets, and keep up the appearance of the downtown. A Business Improvement District is one where the property owners agree to an increase in the district’s tax rate. The revenue from the tax increase are used to fund improvements inside the district.
The correct answer is: Implement a Business Improvement District

Question 47

Q

As a planner for Columbus, Ohio you have two thriving districts the Short North and the convention center district. Visitors often stay in downtown for a convention and want to visit the short north arts district.
The problem is that visitors have to walk across a highway bridge to get there. Even though it is a short walk, the bridge is perceived as a real barrier. You propose the following:
Select one:

a.
A cap park

b.
Provide a tram to cover the distance

c.
Add a gateway arch on both side creating a visual cue

d.
Narrow the roadway and add parking on each side of the street

Answer

A

A cap park provides a park over a segment of the freeway to encourage people to move through the space going from one area to another. All of these are possibilities, but the cap park overcomes the perceived barrier best.
The correct answer is: A cap park

Question 48

Q

Plannersville has a majority Hispanic population. You are planning a community-wide survey targeting families with young children. Which of the following would be the most effective way to reach people aged 24-36?
Select one:

a.
Landline phone Survey

b.
Mail survey

c.
Social Media link to a Survey

d.
Cell phone Survey

Answer

A

According to the Pew Research Center, almost half of Americans have a cell phone, but no landline service (as of 2015) (http://www.pewresearch.org/methodology/u-s-survey-research/collecting-survey-data/). Among Hispanics, 61% have wireless service only. With a younger population, they are unlikely to respond to a mail survey. While social media is a way to publicize the survey, you will be more likely to get a response through direct contact with residents.
The correct answer is: Cell phone Survey

Question 49

Q

The primary purpose of the Census is to provide the basis for which of the following?
Select one:

a.
Determining median family income for the allocation of housing programs

b.
Determining national population

c.
Distributing federal funds to state and local governments

d.
Fairly apportioning the number of seats in the United States House of Representatives for each state

Answer

A

While Census data is used for a variety of purposes, the primary purpose is to apportion seats for Congress.
The correct answer is: Fairly apportioning the number of seats in the United States House of Representatives for each state

Question 50

Q

Which of the following most accurately describes how the US Census Bureau collects data through the American Community Survey?
Select one:

a.
It uses a series of monthly samples to produce annually updated estimates for census tracts and block groups.

b.
Every five years the ACS conducts a sample to produce estimates for census tracts.

c.
Every five years the ACS conducts a sample to produce estimates for census tracts and block groups.

d.
It uses an annual survey to produce a once a year update of estimates for census tracts and block groups.

Answer

A

The American Community Survey uses a series of monthly samples to produce annually updated estimates for the same census tract and block groups that used to be surveyed via the decennial census long-form sample. http://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/acs/methodology/design-and-methodology.html
The correct answer is: It uses a series of monthly samples to produce annually updated estimates for census tracts and block groups.

Question 51

Q

You have been working on a zoning ordinance amendment that allows for granny flats. As part of your staff report, you reference recent Census trends in multi-generational living. You report that the percentage of multigenerational households has grown from a low of 12 percent in 1980 to approximately ______ percent of households today.
Select one:

a.
15

b.
26

c.
20

d.
32

Answer

A

According to the 2016 American Community Survey, the share of multigenerational households has almost reached the 1950 peak—now representing 20 percent of the total population.
The correct answer is: 20

Question 52

Q

You have been working on a zoning ordinance amendment that allows for granny flats. As part of your staff report, you reference recent Census trends in multi-generational living. You report that the percentage of multigenerational households has grown from a low of 12 percent in 1980 to approximately ______ percent of households today.
Select one:

a.
15

b.
26

c.
20

d.
32

Answer

A

According to the 2016 American Community Survey, the share of multigenerational households has almost reached the 1950 peak—now representing 20 percent of the total population.
The correct answer is: 20

Question 53

Q

The Zoning Ordinance was last overhauled more than 30 years ago. The ordinance has grown over time, and with all of the amendments it has become a confusing mess. You are currently reviewing the overlay districts. You discover you have an overlay district that is unusual and not typically found in other ordinances. Which of the following is the unusual overlay you discovered?
Select one:

a.
Flood hazard district

b.
Central business district

c.
Airport overlay district

d.
Commercial corridor district

Answer

A

Central business districts are typically their own zoning district, rather than an overlay.
The correct answer is: Central business district

Question 54

Q

A theorist associated with incrementalism is:
Select one:

a.
Charles Lindblom

b.
Ebenezer Howard

c.
John Friedmann

d.
Frank Lloyd Wright

Answer

A

Lindblom wrote about incrementalism as a step by step incremental approach to achieving plans.
The correct answer is: Charles Lindblom

Question 55

Q

The State of Pennsylvania Supreme Court upheld the use of planned unit developments in which of the following cases?
Select one:

a.
Cheney v. Village 2 at New Hope

b.
Euclid v. Ambler Realty

c.
Southern Burlington County NAACP v. Township of Mount Laurel

d.
Nectow v. Cambridge

Answer

A

The Court in 1968 found that planned unit developments are acceptable if the regulations focus on density requirements rather than specific rules for each lot.
The correct answer is: Cheney v. Village 2 at New Hope

Question 56

Q

The 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition included the _____________, designed by Daniel Burnham.
Select one:

a.
White City

b.
White Castle

c.
White House

d.
New York City

Answer

A

The 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition included the White City, designed by Daniel Burnham. The term has been applied to mean the color of the buildings as well as the exclusionary tactics used.
The correct answer is: White City

Question 57

Q

A new grocery store has been built on an arterial. You have been working with a neighborhood that is concerned about cut through traffic to and from the grocery store, which has resulted in both an increase in traffic volume and an increase in traffic speed.

After exploring various options for a neighborhood street, you recommend which of the following?
Select one:

a.
Roundabout

b.
Diagonal parking

c.
Chicane

d.
Speed hump

Answer

A

A chicane is a short, shallow S-shaped turn that requires drivers to turn slightly left and then right again to stay on the road, which results in slowing speeds down. Chicanes are most effective when there are volumes of traffic that are similar from both approaches. While Diagonal parking can reduce traffic speeds, this is best applied in non-residential areas. Roundabouts are intended to slow traffic while increasing traffic efficiency. In this case there is not a desire to increase efficiency of traffic movement, thus we don’t want to encourage more traffic movements. While a speed hump could be used to slow traffic, they have to be placed continuously along a road to be effective. The best choice is a chicane in this case.
The correct answer is: Chicane

Question 58

Q

Which of the following is not a common method of achieving agreement on a course of action?
Select one:

a.
Appointing a single person to adjudicate dispute and make a final decision

b.
Maintaining a democratic decision-making process

c.
Educating the public on all sides of an issue

d.
Working with stakeholder groups to develop a consensus

Answer

A

APA is especially supportive of the idea that planning needs to be an inclusive enterprise that fosters community input and works to develop a consensus. A single person making a decision would run counter to that ideal.

The correct answer is: Appointing a single person to adjudicate dispute and make a final decision

Question 59

Q

What kinds of limitations may prevent citizens from participating in the planning process?

i. No broadband access
ii. Language barriers
iii. Sight impairment
iv. Difficulty reading material

a.
I & IV

b.
I, II, & IV

c.
All of these are limitations that may prevent citizens from participating in the planning process.

d.
I & II

Answer

A

All of these limitations may prevent citizens from learning about or participating in the planning process. In fact, over a quarter of adults do not have access to broadband at home, 9% have limited English, and another 19% cannot read a newspaper due to visual or other reading impairments.
The correct answer is:
All of these are limitations that may prevent citizens from participating in the planning process.

Question 60

Q

Which U.S. Supreme Court case is considered a landmark ruling that made government agency decisions subject to judicial review and also spurred the creation of large numbers of citizens groups dedicated to environmental activism?
Select one:

a.
Tahoe Sierra Preservation Council v. Tahoe Regional Planning Agency

b.
Citizens to Preserve Overton Park v. Volpe

c.
Dolan v. City of Tigard

d.
Kelo v. City of New London

Answer

A

In the 1960s, Citizens to Preserve Overton Park filed suit against US Secretary of Transportation John Volpe after he announced plans to build Interstate 40 through Overton Park in Memphis. The suit claimed that he was violating section 4(f) of the Dept. of Transportation Act of 1966, which required the government to show there were no “feasible and prudent” alternatives to using public lands, such as parks when building freeways. In 1971, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Citizens to Preserve Overton Park. This led to a considerable increase in grassroots environmental organizing.
The correct answer is: Citizens to Preserve Overton Park v. Volpe

Question 61

Q

Which planning movement focused on reviving the civic center of a city in an attempt to attract the wealthy, eradicate social ills, and bring US cities into parity with their European counterparts?
Select one:

a.
Urban Renewal

b.
New Town

c.
Garden City

d.
City Beautiful

Answer

A

City Beautiful sought to achieve these objectives.
The correct answer is: City Beautiful

Question 62

Q

All of the following groups of planning philosophies came before the City Humane Movement, except:
Select one:

A.
City Efficient

B.
City Functional

C.
City Beautiful

D.
Public Health

Answer

A

The planning philosophies, City Efficient, City Beautiful, and Public Health came before the City Humane Movement. The City Humane Movement occurred in the 1930s.
The correct answer is: City Functional

Question 63

Q

In this case, the respondent argued that the city had violated a telecommunications act by discriminating against a commercial enterprise:
Select one:

a.
City of Rancho Palos Verdes v. Abrams

b.
Norwood v. Horney

c.
Kelo v. City of New London

d.
Berman v. Parker

Answer

A

City of Rancho Palos Verdes established that there are administrative procedures to remedy violations of the telecommunications act and that an individual cannot force compliance.
The correct answer is: City of Rancho Palos Verdes v. Abrams

Question 64

Q

Which of the following is true statements about the Civil Rights Act?

Select one:

a.
Title VIII of the 1968 Civil Rights Act is also known as the Fair Housing Act

b.
It was first passed in 1968 Under President Johnson.

c.
It was first passed in 1962 under President Kennedy.

d.
Major amendments were passed in 1965 and 1970.

Answer

A

The Civil Rights Act of 1964 banned discrimination and segregation on the basis of race, religion, national origin and gender in the workplace, schools, public accommodations and in federally assisted programs. The Civil Rights Act of 1968 provided for equal housing opportunities regardless of race, creed, or national origin. The Fair Housing Act (FHA) is also known as Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968.
The correct answer is: Title VIII of the 1968 Civil Rights Act is also known as the Fair Housing Act

Answer 65

A

The idea was to create complete neighborhoods that provided convenient access for residents to school and businesses.
The correct answer is: Regional Survey of New York and Its Environs

Answer 66

A

Clarence Stein is a co-founder of the Regional Planning Association of America.
The correct answer is: Clarence Stein

Answer 67

A

The Clean Water Act of 1972 exercised its power to regulate interstate commerce by prohibiting discharges into the nation’s navigable waters. If the body of water can be used to transport goods from one state to another it is covered by the Clean Water Act. The Environmental Protection Agency and the Army Corp of Engineers have regulatory power to prepare rules for navigable waters.
The correct answer is: The US EPA and the Army Corp of Engineers

Answer 68

A

The Clean Water Act of 1972 exercised its power to regulate interstate commerce by prohibiting discharges into the nation’s navigable waters. If the body of water can be used to transport goods from one state to another it is covered by the Clean Water Act. The Environmental Protection Agency and the Army Corp of Engineers have regulatory power to prepare rules for navigable waters.
The correct answer is: The US EPA and the Army Corp of Engineers

Answer 69

A

In this case, bringing together organizations that support light rail to build a coalition would be most helpful. A open house could be used to inform the public about light rail. A public hearing could be used to express interest to the part of the city council. A visual preference survey would not be helpful because people don’t need to vote on pictures of light rail.
The correct answer is: Coalition building

Answer 70

A

Coalitions often have goals as varied as coalitions themselves, but they often include one or more elements of influencing public policy, changing public behavior, and building healthy community. Building coalitions allows for individual groups with a common interest to work together toward their goal(s).
The correct answer is:
I, II, & III

Answer 71

A

A COG or regional council is a multi-service entity that delivers a variety of federal, state, and local programs, and they are accountable to local units of government. They can also function as partners for state and federal governments.
The correct answer is: Local government

Answer 72

A

The correct answer is that there isn’t really a difference. The terms regional council (RC) and council of governments (COG) are generally interchangeable. They might also be called regional planning commissions, regional commissions, or planning districts.
The correct answer is: There is essentially no difference

Answer 73

A

The Cohort Survival method, also known as the population pyramid, is one of the most detailed population estimation methods.
The correct answer is: Cohort Survival

Answer 74

A

Agreement can become more difficulty with a large number of members. Having at least 9 members ensures that all personality types are represented and a diversity of voices. A small committee can at times not bring a broad enough set of interests to the table. In this case you would want a mix of stakeholders, such as parents, neighbors, teachers, staff, administrators etc.
The correct answer is: 9 to 15

Answer 75

A

Consensus building. Using a scientific process to plan is associated with rational planning. Viewing planning as a series of incremental steps is associated with incremental planning. Working one-on-one with citizens to develop a plan is associated with transactive planning.
The correct answer is: Consensus building

Answer 76

A

Consensus Building asks stakeholders to work together to come to a solution. Coalition Building brings parties who agree together to promote an idea. A Town Hall Meeting is good to identify issues, but in this case, the issue is already known. Focus Groups might be useful in understanding the issue further, but is not the best answer.
The correct answer is: Consensus Building

Answer 77

A

Consensus Building asks stakeholders to work together to come to a solution. Coalition Building brings parties who agree together to promote an idea. A Town Hall Meeting is good to identify issues, but in this case, the issue is already known. Focus Groups might be useful in understanding the issue further, but is not the best answer.
The correct answer is: Consensus Building

Answer 78

A

Conservation zoning requires the clustering of homes while preserving open space. The subdivisions can be designed to protect well water areas by placing septic systems in other areas.
The correct answer is: Conservation zoning

Answer 79

A

Contour lines can be curved, straight or a mixture of curved and straight depending on the topography of a specific location.
The correct answer is: Contour lines are always curved

Answer 80

A

The number of contributing buildings is critical. In this case, there is one building on the national register; but if this is the only nationally historic contributing building, it is unlikely that an application would be approved. Demolition of homes would not be prevented with a national register designation. The other choices are all relevant, however, the best answer is the number of contributing buildings.
The correct answer is: The number of contributing buildings

Answer 81

A

The National Corridor Planning and Development Program and the Coordinated Border Infrastructure Program provided funding between 1999 and 2005, but was discontinued under The Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act and the Coordinated Border Infrastructure Program. (http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/planning/border_planning/corbor/)

The correct answer is: National Corridor Planning and Development Program and the Coordinated Border Infrastructure Program

Answer 82

A

Council of Governments (CoGs—also known as regional councils, regional commissions, regional planning commissions, and planning districts) are regional governing and/or coordinating bodies that exist throughout the United States.
The correct answer is: Council of Governments

Answer 83

A

Crime Prevention through Environmental Design takes a safety-based approach to the design of the environment, including features such as lines of sight and lighting. The American Planning Association Policy Guide on Security provides for best practices in designing secure spaces https://www.planning.org/policy/guides/adopted/security.htm
The correct answer is: Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design principles

Answer 84

A

Richard Florida, author of The Rise of the Creative Class argues that in order for a city to attract the Creative Class, it must possess “the three ‘T’s”: Talent (a highly talented/educated/skilled population), Tolerance (a diverse community, which has a ‘live and let live’ ethos), and Technology (the technological infrastructure necessary to fuel an entrepreneurial culture).
The correct answer is: Affordable single-family housing

Answer 85

A

II. ) describes the design charrette method;
III.) describes the nominal group technique; and
IV.) describes the mediation method.

Only I.) explains how the Delphi Method encourages group members to achieve consensus by revising their answers to hypothetical questionnaires.
The correct answer is:
I only

Answer 86

A

Explanation: A group of appointed citizens to advise the governing body is known as a Citizen Advisory Committee (also known by other names in each community). It is not necessary to have a group of appointed citizens to participate in the Delphi technique.
The correct answer is: It uses a group of appointed citizens to advise the governing body

Answer 87

A

Explanation: A group of appointed citizens to advise the governing body is known as a Citizen Advisory Committee (also known by other names in each community). It is not necessary to have a group of appointed citizens to participate in the Delphi technique.
The correct answer is: It uses a group of appointed citizens to advise the governing body

Answer 88

A

Department of the Interior is responsible for the National Park Service, which is responsible for overseeing the National Register of Historic Places.
The correct answer is: Department of the Interior

Answer 89

A

The dependency ratio is a ratio of dependents, those who are younger than 15 and those older than 64, to represent the working age population. Data are shown as the proportion of dependents per 100 working age population.
The correct answer is: Dependency Ratio

Answer 90

A

Descriptive statistics are distinguished from inferential statistics (or inductive statistics), in that descriptive statistics aim to summarize a sample, rather than use the data to learn about the population that the sample of data is thought to represent.
The correct answer is: Descriptive

Answer 91

A

A local street is designed to service land uses such as single family homes and public uses where young children would be.
The correct answer is: Local

Answer 92

A

A local street is designed to service land uses such as single family homes and public uses where young children would be.
The correct answer is: Local

Answer 93

A

The legal basis for the zoning ordinance amendment is critical to include. Zoning for the purposes of aesthetics is a valid public purpose and the staff report should reflect any state statutes or other legal basis for putting in place these standards. While architecture character and quality of life are relevant in the report, the legal basis is the best answer.
The correct answer is: The legal basis for enforcing the design standards

Answer 94

A

A development agreement can be used to clarify what infrastructure will be provided as part of a development. Impact fees can also be instituted to pay for off-site improvements, however since this improvement is on-site the better answer is a development agreement.
The correct answer is: Development agreement

Answer 95

A

A variable that can only take a finite number of values is called a discrete variable. Examples are counts, like number of traffic accidents. A dichotomous variable has only two values, typically zero and 1. This is also known as a binary variable.
The correct answer is: Discrete

Answer 96

A

A variable that can only take a finite number of values is called a discrete variable. Examples are counts, like number of traffic accidents. A dichotomous variable has only two values, typically zero and 1. This is also known as a binary variable.
The correct answer is: Discrete

Answer 97

A

All of these would be factors to consider in ensuring a healthy downtown commercial district in a historic community.
The correct answer is: I, II, III, and IV

Answer 98

A

A drop-off survey would be the best choice because you could leave the survey at neighborhood homes and businesses, allowing residents to complete them at their convenience. By dropping off the survey you would have personal contact with the residents. A drop-off survey would have a higher response rate than a mail survey. Given that the area is low-income, electronic and by phone would be poor choices because not everyone would have access to a telephone or the Internet.
The correct answer is: Drop-off

Answer 99

A

Concerns regarding environmental justice build upon Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. A formal federal policy on environmental justice was established in 1994, and in 1995 the US Department of Transportation issued its Order to Address Environmental Justice. It states that consideration of environmental justice issues must be considered during preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). These considerations include documentation, data analysis and public participation, but not mitigation of past environmental injustices.
The correct answer is: Determine whether minority populations, low-income populations, or Indian tribes are present

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