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1. What is quasi-judicial activity?

Quasi-judicial activity occurs when the governing body acts like a judge or tribunal in determining how a general rule or regulation should apply to an individual, small group or interest. Actions related to land use (i.e., zoning, plats, the Comprehensive Plan, subdivisions, etc.) and licenses (daycare, solicitors, alcohol, etc.) are usually quasi-judicial in nature.

2. What rules apply with quasi-judicial matters?

Quasi-judicial matters are more formal and restrictive than other matters. Generally, the public can participate only during the "public hearing" portion of the meeting. This means that the public can not give input to governing board members prior to the meeting or after the public portion of the meeting has been closed.

The reason that public input is taken only during the public hearing is to ensure that the decision made is one based only upon evidence in the record and not based upon outside influences or information. See the Public Meetings Handbook (page 4) (PDF) for specific information about consideration of quasi-judicial items. Moscow City Code 4-10-4 and 4-10-5 control public hearing procedures.

3. Who can participate during the meeting?

The applicant, people in support or in opposition to the application, and those wishing to give general testimony may participate, as permitted by the Chair.