The different conceptual models $of$ decision$-$making suggest that there may $be$ different roles appropriate for transportation planners under different circumstances.

a Given your knowledge $of$ decision$-$making $in$ your locality, what $is$ your opinion $on$ the most appropriate role $of$ transportation planners $in$ responding $to$ the political process?

$b$ With recent trends toward austerity and other government initiatives $to$ alter local government decision$-$making, how would you expect decision$-$making $to$ change $in$ the near future? How can transportation planners adapt $to$ this change?