NOTE TO APPLICANT(S): Please refrain from contacting any member of the Zoning Board of Appeals in matters related to your application. Any communication outside the public hearing, including but not limited to face-to-face conversations, phone calls, written correspondence, e-mails, instant messaging, and the next level of technology that presents itself with any member of the Zoning Board of Appeals is considered an “ex parte communication.” An “ex parte communication” occurs when an interested party in the matter to be decided (or representative) and a quasi-judicial decision-maker discuss, outside the formal hearing process, the substance of the matter to be decided. If this were to occur the decision-maker is disqualified (must be recused) from voting on the matter. Outside communications also create an appearance of impropriety and serves to undercut public confidence in the integrity of the process.