Commission recommends code changes to replace Board of Adjustments with single appeal authority

The Parowan Planning and Zoning Commission voted Feb. 19 to recommend amendments to Parowan City Municipal Code 15.14 that rename the Board of Adjustments to an appeal authority and change how that body is constituted and operated.

Under the proposed amendments, the code would use the name “appeal authority” throughout, change the composition from five members to a single member appointed by the mayor with City Council advice and consent, remove term limits and allow removal without cause, and eliminate sections about officers, quorums and voting procedures while making other changes to meeting procedures.

Staff told commissioners the recommendation is primarily a code cleanup and structural change; if City Council supports the change, the city would begin the process to procure or negotiate for someone to serve in the appeal authority role (by RFP or negotiation) at a later date. Dan said council approval would be required before advancing to recruitment or contract work.

A motion to recommend the amendments to PCMC 15.14 passed by voice vote. Commissioners noted this is primarily a housekeeping and structural change but that City Council will evaluate the governance implications and the city will not recruit for the role until Council indicates support.

If Council adopts the amendment, the city would proceed with steps to identify and contract with a qualified individual to serve as the single‑member appeal authority, subject to Council appointment and advice/consent procedures.