Dowling resigns from planning commission to avoid ambiguities in both positions
A state representative has announced his resignation from the Uniontown Planning Commission to avoid any future ambiguities between his two public service roles.
State Rep. Matthew Dowling, R-Uniontown, announced his resignation from the commission Tuesday.
“It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as a member of the commission for the last seven years,” Dowling said. “However, to ensure there is no ambiguity between that and my role as a state legislator, I felt it was important to resign from the commission at this time.”
Dowling said he spoke with the legal counsel in the state House of Representatives and even though there are no ethical issues of Dowling remaining on the board while serving as a legislator, he wanted to be sure that it would never be unclear from what position on issues he is speaking.
Dowling was appointed to the commission in February 2010 and elected as a state representative of the 51st Legislative District in November 2016.
He also said since he took office, no one has objected to his dual roles at commission meetings.
He said leaving the commission was a difficult decision as he enjoyed serving the city, but can now serve his constituents in a different manner.
“The planning commission plays a vital role in the development and comprehensive planning of our city, and the men and women who serve are dedicated to this important task,” Dowling said. “I wish them well and encourage others to get involved as we continue working to make our community the best it can be.”