In all cases in which the attendance of witnesses may be compelled for such investigation, any member of the council may administer the requisite oaths, and the council shall have the same power to compel the giving of testimony by the attending witnesses as is conferred upon courts of justice. In all such cases, witnesses shall be entitled to the same privileges and immunities as are allowed witnesses in civil cases. Witnesses shall be paid the same fees and mileage provided for under R.C. § 1901.26, and the costs of all such proceedings shall be payable from the general fund of the municipal corporation.
(R.C. § 733.39)