June 8, 2020 — COVID-19 has caused local government boards and governing bodies to adapt to holding virtual meetings, instead of in person sessions. Practices vary from town to town and from board to board. While non-adjudicatory matters, such as discussions of topics and ordinances or other business has proceeded, including first and second reading and public hearings on some ordinances, many boards - but not all, have been somewhat reluctant to proceed with quasi-adjudicatory hearings, such as applications for variance, site plan, and subdivision approvals. Other boards have proceeded. Each board’s practices and requirements, especially regarding notice of hearings on applications, should be examined to determine how best to proceed. While some applications may be delayed, many believe that other applications can and should proceed via virtual hearings, and need not be delayed for months.