Agenda

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ARF- 2652

Regular Agenda Item 4. E.

Special Meeting

Meeting Date:	07/15/2014
Submitted For:	Robert Gould
Submitted By:	Robert Gould, Community Development Division Director, Community Development Division
Department:	Community Development	Division:	Code Enforcement

Information

Request/Subject

Appointment of an Alternative Hearing Officer for the Community Development Division's Code Enforcement Program

Background Information

The Community Development Division currently uses Jim Weeks as a Hearing Officer for its Code Enforcement Program. Mr. Weeks will continue serving in that capacity; however, during those times when Mr. Weeks has a conflict of interest with a particular case, it is necessary to use an alternate Hearing Officer. That situation has recently risen regarding a case in Strawberry.

Per A.R.S. § 11-815 (E), Gila County is authorized to appoint a hearing officer to hear and decide Code violation cases.

Evaluation

Peter Van Haren has offered to serve as an alternative Hearing Officer for Gila County. Should the Board of Supervisors appoint Mr. Peter Van Haren, it is anticipated that his services will seldom be needed as this is the first time a conflict has risen in over eight years. It is crucial that the Board of Supervisors appoint an alternate Hearing Officer to avoid any further delay in hearing the current case in Strawberry and for future cases. Mr. Peter Van Haren has insisted that he does not want any payment for these services.

Conclusion

Peter Van Haren has four years of experience in performing these duties and is highly regarded by those who work with him. The only added cost to the County will be for Mr. Haren's travel; however, staff believes it is worthwhile to appoint Mr. Haren. As stated earlier, it is anticipated that Mr. Haren's services will rarely be needed.

Recommendation

The Community Development Director recommends that the Board of Supervisors appoint Peter Van Haren as an alternative Hearing Officer for the Community Development Division's Code Enforcement Program.

Suggested Motion

Information/Discussion/Action to appoint Peter Van Haren as an alternative Hearing Officer for the Community Development Division's Code Enforcement Program. (Bob Gould)

Attachments
ARS 11-815