(1) The Planning Commission may direct that any matter over which it has jurisdiction be formally or informally referred to the Planning Commission staff for review and the preparation of recommendations. This can be done through adopted bylaws, motion of the Planning Commission or under the direction of the Planning Commission chair.

(2) If a matter is referred to the Planning Commission staff as permitted by Subsection (1) of this Section, the staff shall conform to any instructions or limitations contained in the referral, and subject thereto shall review the referred matter and conduct any necessary hearings and shall prepare written recommendations for the Planning Commission, including recommendations on conditional use permit applications.

(3) Unless the Planning Commission shall otherwise direct, an applicant for authorization to develop property may in writing consent to the staff recommendation and waive further action by the Planning Commission. If the applicant waives further action by the Planning Commission, the staff recommendation shall be considered approved by the Planning Commission and appropriate authorization and permits may be issued. This Subsection (3) shall not apply to any action with respect to which the Planning Commission is required by state law to take direct action.