ABSTRACT
Regardless of what action is taken in conjunction with a zoning ordinance, a public hearing is involved to inform the public and to allow public expression. This holds true whether it is an ordinance adoption, amendment, special permit consideration, or variance. Depending upon the matter under consideration, the state statutes, and the wording of the local ordinance, those hearings are held by the planning (zoning) commission, the governing body, or the zoning board of adjustment. Least understood is the role of the zoning board, although we should all be aware of the hearing process required by other similar agencies. Because of the need to understand this role, I am going to outline the steps resulting in an appeal for a variance that would lead ultimately to a public hearing by that body and comment on how it is conducted.
