Madison County BZA reviews bylaws draft, discusses membership changes and an upcoming appeal

The Madison County Board of Zoning Appeals discussed board membership, a draft set of bylaws prepared by staff, and upcoming procedural matters.

The chair told the panel that two board members’ terms expire April 17: Suzanne Law said she intends to continue for another term, while Roger Cladabuk said he will step down at the end of his term. The chair asked alternate Jessica whether she would accept elevation to a regular seat; Jessica agreed. The board moved that staff present these recommendations to the county administrator (Jonathan) and the board of supervisors; the motion passed by voice vote. The board directed staff to advertise for at least one alternate seat.

Alan introduced a draft of BZA bylaws he prepared and said he had provided the draft to the county attorney for review; the attorney will return commentary by the April meeting. Board members raised questions about draft language pulled from state code — particularly language describing who may appeal an administrative officer’s decision — and recommended narrowing overly broad wording so that the bylaws align with the board’s intended operation. Alan advised that quorum requirements depend on whether the body is acting on a variance (a quorum of three members may suffice) or serving in a quasi-judicial capacity for appeals (requiring five members seated), which underscored the importance of the alternate seat.

Alan noted an appeal involving vested rights will come before the board soon; he said he will circulate links to the relevant state-code sections and publish the packet in a few days and cautioned members about ex parte contacts while an attorney is involved.

The board asked members to review the bylaws draft and be prepared to consider action at the April meeting after attorney comments are returned.