Charter group adopts detailed option to add a zoning hearing officer/master

The commission voted to adopt the more prescriptive charter option that would require, at the charter level, an intermediate quasi-judicial review step for zoning matters handled by a qualified hearing officer or master.

Ken (staff researcher) presented two models: a detailed option creating an appointed hearing officer with qualifications, a recommended four-year term and a required ordinance to set implementation details; and a higher-level option requiring council to designate by ordinance an interim reviewer or body. The commission chose the detailed option to preserve professional standards and produce a reliable factual record for council hearings.

Proponents argued a professional hearing officer would deliver a consistent, expert analysis of land-use facts and rules, reducing the burden on the council to make technical determinations. "Bringing a hearing officer gives you a professional with your eyes on the case and pulls out the facts and the rules and puts them together in one document," one commissioner said (commissioner speaking in favor). Opponents warned against creating another layer of bureaucracy and said qualifications and appointment details should be spelled out carefully to avoid unintended consequences.

Next steps: Ken will fold the chosen option 1 language into the working charter draft and prepare recommended appointment and confirmation processes for the commission to review before the final submission.