The board of commissioners or the planning and zoning commission may appoint a hearing officer to perform the procedural functions set forth in this title with regard to the procedures to be followed by the board and the commission. The hearing officer shall not make findings of fact and conclusions of law, but may assist the board or the commission in the preparation of such findings and conclusions. If no hearing officer is appointed, the chairman or vice chairman of the board or commission shall serve as hearing officer. (Ord. 09-09, 10-6-2009)