How does the AICP Code of Ethics address conflicts of interest?

• A. Disclose conflicts, recuse when appropriate, and place the public interest first.
• B. Ignore conflicts for expediency.
• C. Disclose conflicts but never recuse.
• D. Conceal conflicts and proceed.

Answer: (A)

Conflicts of interest are handled by transparency, appropriate withdrawal from decision-making, and always putting the public interest first. The AICP Code of Ethics directs planners to disclose any conflicts to clients, employers, and the public; to recuse themselves from decisions where their objectivity could be compromised; and to ensure that actions serve the public good above personal or private interests. This combination keeps planning decisions open and trustworthy, protects the integrity of the process, and aligns with the duty to serve the public interest.

Disregarding conflicts, never recusing, or concealing conflicts all undermine trust and violate professional responsibilities, which is why those alternatives do not fit the ethical framework.