The Planning Commission is hereby granted the following jurisdiction and authority:
(A) Errors. To hear and decide appeals where it is alleged there is error in any order, requirement, decision or determination made by the Zoning Enforcement Officer;
(B) Variances. To hear and make recommendations on appeals for variances as will not be contrary to the public interest where, owing to special conditions, a literal enforcement will result in practical difficulty or unnecessary hardship, so that the spirit and purpose of this chapter shall be observed, and the public safety, welfare and justice secured. Use variances shall not be granted;
(C) Interpretations. To hear and decide application for interpretations of the zoning regulations and the boundaries of the zoning districts;
(D) Substitutions. To hear and make recommendations on applications for substitutions of more restrictive nonconforming uses for existing nonconforming uses provided no structural alterations are to be made;
(E) Unclassified uses. To hear and make recommendations on applications for unclassified and unspecified uses provided that such uses are similar in character to the principal uses permitted in the zoning district;
(F) Temporary uses. To hear and grant applications for temporary uses in any zoning district, provided that such uses are of a temporary nature, do not involve the erection of a substantial structure, and are compatible with the neighboring uses. Compliance with all other provisions of this chapter shall be required;
(G) Permits. The Planning Commission may recommend the reversal, affirmation of wholly or partly, modifications of the requirements appealed from, or the issuance of a permit;
(H) Assistance. The Planning Commission may request assistance from other municipal officers, departments, commissions and boards; and
(I) Oaths. The Chairman may administer oaths and compel the attendance of witnesses.
(Prior Code, § 9-12-3) (Ord. 2002-4, passed 3-18-2002)