505.19 APPEAL PROCEDURE.

   (a)    The owner of a dog who has been served with a notice pursuant to Section 505.18 may, within seven days after receipt of such notice, make a written demand to the Director of Public Safety for a hearing on the question of whether the dog is dangerous or vicious as defined in Section 505.17.

   (b)   All hearings shall be conducted before the Animal Appeals Board. The Board shall be composed of the Law Director or designee, a doctor of veterinary medicine designated by the Director of Public Safety, and an officer of the humane Society of Greater Akron. The Board may affirm, reverse or modify the finding that a dog is dangerous or vicious by a majority vote.

   (c)   A copy of the decision of the Board shall be served upon the person who made the written demand for the hearing, by certified mail with a return receipt requested. The decision of the Board shall be final and conclusive, unless an appeal is timely filed in a court of competent jurisdiction.

   (d)   All hearings held by the Board pursuant to this chapter shall be administrative in nature. At all hearings conducted pursuant to this section, any party may be represented by legal counsel. The rules of evidence utilized by the courts shall not be applicable in hearings before the Board. The Board is hereby empowered to subpoena witnesses and take testimony under oath.
(Ord. 114-2006. Passed 8-22-06.)