Nominations Committee Interviews Ernie Schlegel Jr., Tables Zoning Hearing Board Appointment Until Next Monday

The Nominations and Appointments Committee interviewed Ernie Schlegel Jr. on February 3 for an alternate seat on the Zoning Hearing Board and agreed to delay a final decision until next Monday so members can review an unspecified issue that arose during his prior board service.

Schlegel told the panel he understands the board’s role and appeals process. "The purpose of the zoning hearing board exists to hold hearings on variances and conditional use, permits," he said, adding that the board "takes testimony and evidence, as well as interpreting the law and then issues a determination." He also noted that an applicant dissatisfied with the board’s determination may appeal to common pleas court within 30 days.

Committee members praised Schlegel’s municipal experience and history of service on multiple local boards, saying that background could be valuable on the Zoning Hearing Board. "There's a lot of interest still being part of the city," Counselor Vanessa Campos said, noting his record of volunteer roles and engagement.

Chair Chris Miller, however, raised an unresolved concern about "an issue" that occurred on one of the boards where Schlegel previously served and urged members to "educate themselves" on the matter before a vote. "I would prefer not to vote on this until people have had a chance to review, and educate themselves before a decision is made," Miller said. Following that discussion, Miller moved "that we table this decision until the future when everybody feels they're prepared and forward." Staff indicated they would not advance the appointment until the committee provided direction.

Staff also confirmed procedural details about the Zoning Hearing Board: it typically has zoning staff (often the zoning administrator, sometimes an employee named Emily) present at hearings and an independent solicitor advising the board. The committee heard updates on other pending applications, including a candidate for the Citizens Initiative Commission, a reappointment on the Redding Redevelopment Authority, and a Youth Commission reappointment pending background clearances.

The committee agreed to make the appointment decision next Monday and asked staff to check with counsel on whether any formal step is required to carry the matter forward. The meeting adjourned after the scheduling decision.

Next step: the committee will reconvene next Monday to consider the appointment after members review the noted issue.