City Council

CC 14. Designation of an Independent Hearing Officer to Hear Appeals of Orders, Decisions, and/or Determinations of the City Building Official Recommendation(s): Adopt Resolution No._____ designating an independent hearing officer to hear appeals of orders, decisions, and/or determinations of the City Building Official. Chapter 15.04 of the Lancaster Municipal Code authorizes the City Building Official to enforce the California Building Code as adopted and/or amended by the City. Under this chapter, property owners are granted the right to appeal decisions made by the Building Official. To ensure due process and maintain impartiality in administrative hearings, staff recommends the designation of an independent hearing officer. This action will establish a consistent and transparent process for hearing appeals related to enforcement actions or determinations made by the Building Official. The independent hearing officer will be responsible for conducting fair and unbiased hearings and rendering decisions in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. The proposed resolution formally designates an independent hearing officer to hear all such appeals. This designation enhances the City’s commitment to accountability, transparency, and fair administration of its municipal codes.