Council Adopts Ordinance 1650 Related to Decisions by the Hearings Examiner and the Council’s Role in the Quasi-Judicial Process

During their December 7 meeting, the Council voted unanimously to adopt Ordinance 1650 which makes Hearings Examiner decisions final in all matters. This change separates the Quasi-Judicial and legislative functions.

Moving the Council away from the Quasi-Judicial process allows them to communicate directly with community members at all times. Removing the time-intensive requirements of Quasi-Judicial decision-making would also allow councilmembers more time to concentrate on their legislative and policymaking functions.

In addition, Hearings Examiners are professionally trained in land use matters and the Quasi-Judicial process. They are familiar with the technical data, the hearings process, the law, and are free from political influence. In short, Hearings Examiners are well-equipped to conduct Quasi-Judicial Hearings and render final decisions.

To watch the December 7 Council Meeting related to this topic, click here.