(1) The Administrator may consult with qualified local, State or federal agency with outside expertise and jurisdiction to review a submitted mitigation plan, critical area report, or other technical information provided by the project proponent to comply with this Program.

(2) The Administrator shall determine when third-party review shall be required. Third-party review allows any technical studies or inventories provided by the project proponent to be reviewed by an independent third party, paid for by the project proponent, but hired by the Administrator. The Administrator shall require third-party review when he/she determines that such review is necessary to adequately evaluate a proposal’s potential impacts and accordance with the relevant provisions of this Program. A qualified professional shall conduct third-party review. The project proponent may appeal the Administrative determination to require an independent third-party review to the Hearing Examiner pursuant to Chapter 26.10 CCC.