Correct Answer:
B. Written order with reasons
In administrative law, decisions made by a Hearing Officer must adhere to principles of transparency, accountability, and due process. Therefore, a Hearing Officer is mandated to decide a complaint or representation by issuing a written order with reasons. This ensures that the decision is clear, justifiable, and provides a basis for any potential appeal or review, upholding legal standards and fairness.
- Option A, a verbal order, lacks a formal record and accountability.
- Option C, a summary note, is insufficient for a formal, legally binding decision.
- Option D, a recommendation to the Board, is an input to a decision-making body, not the decision itself by the Hearing Officer.