This title of this article shall be the "Alternate Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals Members Act." This article shall apply to the appointment, terms, functions and powers of alternate members appointed to serve on the Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals in the Town of Cortlandt.
[Adopted 12-10-2019 by L.L. No. 7-2019]
From time to time, the Planning Board and the Zoning Board of Appeals ("ZBA") in the Town of Cortlandt are not at their full voting strength for various reasons. In such instances, where official business may be impacted, the use of alternate members is hereby authorized pursuant to the provisions of this article.
As used in this article, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated:
An individual appointed by the Cortlandt Town Board to serve on the Planning Board or the Zoning Board of Appeals when a regular member is unable to participate on an application or matter before the respective board.
Any individual normally appointed by the Cortlandt Town Board to serve on the Planning Board or the Zoning Board of Appeals pursuant to the provisions of the local law or ordinance which establishes each board.
The Planning Board of the Town of Cortlandt as established by the Cortlandt Town Board and pursuant to Town Law § 271.
The Zoning Board of Appeals of the Town of Cortlandt as established by the Cortlandt Town Board and pursuant to Town Law § 267.
A.
The Cortlandt Town Board hereby enacts this article to provide a process for appointing alternate members of the Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals. These individuals would serve when members are absent or unable to participate in an application or matter before the respective board.
B.
Alternate members of the Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals shall be appointed by the Cortlandt Town Board for a term of two years.
C.
The Chairpersons of the Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals may designate an alternate to substitute for a member when such member is unable to participate in an application or matter before the board. When so designated, alternate members shall possess all the powers and responsibilities of such member of the board. Such designation shall be entered into the minutes of the Planning Board or Zoning Board of Appeals meeting at which the substitution is officially made.
D.
All provisions of state law relating to Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals member eligibility, vacancy in office, removal, compatibility of office and service on other boards, as well as any applicable provisions of local law relating to training, continuing education, compensation, ethics, and attendance, shall also apply to alternate members.
E.
Alternate members are expected to attend and participate in regularly scheduled work sessions and public meetings.
F.
Alternate members may only vote after a proper designation by their specific Planning Board or Zoning Board of Appeals Chairperson.