BZA Opening- September 20, 2010

The Steuben County Plan Commission has an opening for a volunteer to serve on the Board of Zoning Appeals.

The Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) is a five-member board that hears petitions concerning the use and development of property within the Steuben County Plan Commission jurisdiction. The quasi-judicial body decides land-use variances, developmental standard variances, special exception uses, and appeals of decisions. When hearing cases, members use criteria outlined in Indiana Law and the Steuben County Zoning Ordinance to make their decisions.

BZA members may be required to attend up to two meetings per month. These meetings are held on the first and second Mondays immediately following the Plan Commission hearing. All meetings are held in the Steuben County Community Center, starting at 7:00 pm. BZA members also attend a monthly site survey the last Friday of the month, starting at 7:00 am.

BZA members are appointed by the County Commissioners, the County Council, and the Plan Commission for four year terms. The current opening is for an existing appointment, which expires on December 31, 2011. The position is likely to be filled starting in January of 2011. The individual appointed to fill the term is expected to attend several BZA meetings prior to seating. Training is available to interested individuals.

BZA members must live within the Steuben County Plan Commission jurisdiction and cannot be an elected or appointed government official.

Please contact the Steuben County Plan Commission at 260 668.1000 x1600 or plancommission@co.steuben.in.us for any questions or to request an application.