Commissioners create paid seasonal hearing-officer classification for Board of Revision appeals

The Lorain County Board of Commissioners voted to amend the county compensation plan to add a seasonal hearing-officer classification to serve on Board of Revision appeals. The position is seasonal (approximately March through May or as needed) and will be paid on a per-diem basis not to exceed $200 unless modified by subsequent resolution.

Commissioners explained the change came after conversations with local real estate professionals and the county auditor. The county had planned to use a rotating roster of 6–10 licensed real estate professionals to sit as hearing officers and provide current-market expertise to taxpayers appealing property valuations. However, the auditor advised that those compensated for hearing duties must be employees rather than unpaid volunteers; the amendment makes the role an employee classification so payment can be made in compliance with auditor guidance.

Commissioners said the volunteer interest had been strong and that many participants offered time pro bono, but the county must pay hearing officers to comply with statutory and auditor requirements. The board also noted that the Board of Revision has received a large volume of appeals this year—commissioners said roughly 1,200 appeals are expected—and said the county plans to recognize volunteers and compensated participants at the conclusion of the process.

Ending: The compensation plan amendment passed unanimously; human resources will implement the payroll classification and the county will publish further details on pay and scheduling.