A person charged with a violation for which a fine may be imposed under this chapter may do the following.
(A) Prior to the filing of an action in the Circuit Court alleging an ordinance violation, the alleged violator may appear before the Animal Violations Clerk and pay a fine as provided in this chapter.
(B) Prior to the filing of an action in Court alleging an ordinance violation the alleged violator may appear before the Board, or its hearing officer(s), to present their defense to the alleged violation. The Board hearing officer(s) may conduct an administrative hearing based upon the testimony and evidence presented by the Animal Control Officer and the alleged violator. In the event the Board finds that the violator is guilty of the alleged ordinance violation, the violator may be ordered to pay the fine and costs associated therewith. The violator may stay the payment of the fine and costs by appealing the decision to the Circuit Court on a form provided by the Court and paying the appropriate filing fee required by Court.
(C) Payment of the fine and costs under this provision constitutes a plea of guilty to the alleged violation of this chapter and constitutes a waiver of appearance before the Board or the Court. The Animal Violations Clerk shall issue receipts to violators for civil penalties paid to the Clerk.
(Ord. O-C11-7, passed 12-28-2011)