(A) Each party to a hearing may have assistance in presenting evidence or in setting forth by argument his position, from any attorney or such other person as may be designated by such party.
(B) Formal rules of evidence shall not apply to Commission proceedings; however, all oral testimony offered as evidence shall be under oath.
(C) In the event that any party shall fail to appear at the time and place set for hearing of a petition, the Commission may hear and review such evidence as may be presented, and may make such findings and decisions as shall be supported by the evidence presented.
(D) The Commission, or designated hearing officer, shall make findings based on the evidence as to each fact relevant to the Commission's decision on the petition. The decision of the Commission shall be based upon the findings, and shall interpret this chapter; determine whether the action or proposed action of a landlord if valid, permitted and in conformity with this chapter; and/or determine whether a hardship exists, and if so, the nature and amount of relief to be granted or authorized to the landlord.
(E) Nothing in this section is intended to limit or preclude any other lawful defense, cause of action, or claim of the landlord or homeowner.
(Ord. 892, passed 4-4-84)