The Rehoboth Beach Board of Adjustment is a crucial entity responsible for overseeing the city’s zoning regulations and ensuring fair and equitable decision-making. As a Beaches Touring Enthusiast, understanding the role and workings of this board can provide valuable insights into the development and preservation of the beloved coastal community.
What is the Rehoboth Beach Board of Adjustment?
The Rehoboth Beach Board of Adjustment is a five-member body appointed by the City Council. These individuals are residents of Rehoboth Beach and possess expertise in urban and environmental matters. The board’s primary responsibilities include hearing and deciding on requests for variances from the city’s zoning regulations, as well as appeals against decisions made by the Building Inspector.
What Types of Cases Does the Board Handle?
The Rehoboth Beach Board of Adjustment is responsible for two main types of cases:
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Appeals: These are appeals against decisions made by the Building Inspector regarding the interpretation and application of the City Zoning Code. The board evaluates whether the Building Inspector’s interpretation was appropriate.
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Variance Requests: These are requests for the board to authorize a use of property that conflicts with the Zoning Code. The board grants variances only when an applicant can demonstrate an unnecessary hardship or unusual practical difficulty in complying with the code.
How Does the Board Make Decisions?
The decision-making process of the Rehoboth Beach Board of Adjustment is as follows:
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Voting: At the end of each hearing, the board members vote on a motion, with each member stating their reasons for their vote.
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Written Decisions: After the vote, a written decision is prepared and forwarded to the applicant. These decisions are also maintained in the city’s records.
What is the Public’s Role?
The Rehoboth Beach Board of Adjustment values public participation in its proceedings:
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Notice of Hearings: Notices of applications before the board are provided to property owners within 200 feet of the property in question. These notices are also published in local newspapers and on the city’s bulletin board.
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Public Comments: The board considers comments from the public on issues related to variance requests and appeals. These comments can be made during the public hearings or submitted in writing to the Planning & Zoning Office.
When Does the Board Meet?
The Rehoboth Beach Board of Adjustment holds regular meetings, with agendas and minutes available on the city’s website. This allows the public to stay informed and engaged with the board’s activities.
Key Documents to Reference
To better understand the Rehoboth Beach Board of Adjustment, the following documents are essential:
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Agendas and Minutes: These can be found on the city’s website, providing a detailed record of the board’s proceedings.
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Zoning Code: The City’s Zoning Code outlines the regulations and procedures for variances and appeals, which the board must adhere to.
Conclusion
The Rehoboth Beach Board of Adjustment plays a vital role in shaping the development and preservation of the city’s unique coastal character. By understanding its composition, jurisdiction, and decision-making process, Beaches Touring Enthusiasts can better appreciate the nuances of zoning and land use in this beloved seaside destination.
Reference:
1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=My36HZOkV_w
2. https://ecode360.com/26868472
3. https://www.cityofrehoboth.com/sites/default/files/ShortInformationSheetConcerningTheBoardofAdjustment.pdf