(4) The local legislative body shall adopt the criteria and procedures
after reasonable public notice, public hearing, and opportunity for review and
comment by the public.

(5) Criteria for administrative adjustments shall include:

(i) Standards for actions on requests;

(ii) Standards for classes of development eligible for administrative
adjustments; and

(iii) Maximum variation from a zoning requirement allowable under
an administrative adjustment.

(6) Procedures for administrative adjustments may include:

(i) Applications;

(ii) Notice to the public and parties in interest;

(iii) Opportunity for public hearing;

(iv) Taking of testimony and evidence; and

(v) Decision making.

(7) A decision on an application for an administrative adjustment shall
include written findings of fact.

(8) The local legislative body may provide, by ordinance or other adopted
procedure, for the appeal of a decision to approve or deny an administrative
adjustment to the board of appeals.

SECTION 2. AND BE IT FURTHER ENACTED, That this Act shall take effect
October 1, 1999.

Approved May 27, 1999.

CHAPTER 653
(House Bill 669)

AN ACT concerning

Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation - Contract

Purchasers

FOR the purpose of allowing a landowner, on behalf of a contract purchaser of land,
with the written approval of the landowner, to file a petition requesting the
establishment of an agricultural district with the county governing body;
allowing a contract purchaser of land, to offer by written application and with
the written approval of the landowner, to sell an easement to the Maryland
Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation on certain agricultural land;