A. After the hearing, the owner or keeper of the animal shall be notified in writing of the hearing officer's decision and any orders issued, either personally or by first class mail. The hearing officer shall prepare a written decision within fifteen (15) days after the hearing is concluded, unless the animal has been impounded, in which case the written decision shall be prepared within five (5) working days after the hearing is concluded. The decision of the hearing officer shall be final. A failure of the owner to receive notice by first class mail shall not affect the validity of the proceedings or any decision or order issued.
B. If the owner or keeper of the animal contests the hearing officer's decision, he or she may, within five (5) days of the service of the decision if service is by personal service, or within six (6) days of service of the decision if service is by mail, appeal the decision of the hearing officer to the superior court, Reedley division, or other court having jurisdiction. The owner or keeper of the animal shall serve notice of appeal on the city by either first class mail or personally on the city manager. Any such appeal shall be a trial de novo. The determination of the court hearing the appeal shall be final and conclusive upon all parties. (Ord. 2009-04, 9-22-2009)