PENN TOWNSHIP ZONING HEARING BOARD
Carl Leicher, Jr.
Eric Mockenhaupt
Greg Ramsey
Requirements to become a member:
To be a member of the Zoning Hearing Board, you must be a resident, not hold any elected office, or be appointed to the Planning Commission. The term for a three-member board would be three years.
What is their responsibility:
The Zoning Hearing Board serves as a quasi-judicial body that conducts public hearings to address land-use conflicts. This includes considering appeals for variances, notable exceptions, or disputes over the validity of zoning ordinances. It provides a structured legal process for property owners and stakeholders to present evidence and testimony before making decisions based on information and applicable laws. The board’s rulings must follow public notice protocols and ensure an impartial hearing, allowing all parties to participate, advocate for their positions, and undergo cross-examination.
Zoning Hearing Board Documents
What are the Functions of a Zoning Hearing Board?
Hearing Appeals: If challenges to the zoning officer’s decision or stakeholders need relief from the Zoning Ordinance, they can request an appeal to the board.
Grant Variances: They review requests for variances, which are exceptions to zoning rules. The properties must have unique physical characteristics, such as narrow or irregular lots, to prevent practical difficulties or unnecessary hardships.
Special Exceptions: The board holds special exceptions hearings. Special Exceptions are allowed uses within a zoning district but require approval to ensure they are compatible with the area.
Validity Challenges to the Zoning Ordinance: The board can also hear challenges to the ordinance’s validity.
Required Public Hearings: The board makes its decision after a formal public hearing. The public can provide input, and all testimony is recorded for the public record.