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PCBA adopts formal public-hearing rules including 5-minute testimony limit
Summary
The Plan Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals voted to adopt formal public‑hearing rules intended to preserve decorum and create an evidentiary record, including a recommended five-minute testimony limit and procedures for applicant testimony and exhibits.
The Plan Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals on June 26 voted to adopt formal rules for public hearings, standardizing testimony procedures, time limits and the record. Staff explained the change is intended to create an evidentiary record for zoning cases: applicants and interested individuals will present evidence under time-limited testimony so the board and staff can create a written and recorded transcript.
A staff representative told the board the rules "are meant to make sure that there's proper decorum and that everyone is heard" and that testimony submitted during the hearing becomes part of the public record. The board approved the rules by roll call vote after a short discussion about recognizing speakers and pausing the clock when applicants answer audience questions.
The rules were adopted by a unanimous vote and will apply to future public hearings, including the continued case on backyard chickens (ZBA24-01 PUD).
