Sec. 4. (a) Notwithstanding IC 8-1.5, IC 36-9-23, IC 36-9-24, IC 36-9-25, or any other law, a board member may not be removed from office except upon charges preferred before the city executive and a hearing held on them. The only permissible reasons for removal are neglect of duty and incompetence. The board member must be given at least ten (10) days notice of the time and place of the hearing and the opportunity to produce evidence and examine and cross-examine witnesses. All testimony shall be given under oath. The city executive shall prepare written findings and file them with the city clerk.

     (b) If the charges are sustained and the board member removed, the board member may appeal the findings within ten (10) days after the date they are filed with the clerk to the circuit or superior court of the county in which the city is located. The board member must file the appeal against the executive stating the charges preferred and the findings made. The court shall hear the appeal de novo without a jury within thirty (30) days after the appeal is filed and shall either ratify or reverse the findings of the executive. The judgment of the court is final and an appeal may not be taken.

As added by P.L.320-1989, SEC.3.

Terms Used In Indiana Code 36-9-35-4

  • Appeal: A request made after a trial, asking another court (usually the court of appeals) to decide whether the trial was conducted properly. To make such a request is "to appeal" or "to take an appeal." One who appeals is called the appellant.
  • Clerk: means the clerk of the court or a person authorized to perform the clerk's duties. See Indiana Code 1-1-4-5
  • Evidence: Information presented in testimony or in documents that is used to persuade the fact finder (judge or jury) to decide the case for one side or the other.
  • Judgment: means all final orders, decrees, and determinations in an action and all orders upon which executions may issue. See Indiana Code 1-1-4-5
  • Testimony: Evidence presented orally by witnesses during trials or before grand juries.