The Council may make or cause to be made inquiries or investigations into the affairs of the City and the conduct of any City department, office or agency and for this purpose may invite or subpoena witnesses, administer oaths, take testimony and require the production of evidence as authorized by West Virginia law.
A written report of the findings of fact shall be made or endorsed by the Council within a reasonable time of the conclusion of any inquiry or investigation conducted under this section, which reports shall be made a public record, subject to West Virginia law and/or and Order of Court restricting disclosure.
Inquiries or investigations under this section shall be conducted only at a duly noticed public meeting called especially for the purpose of conducting an inquiry or investigation.
Any person who fails or refuses to obey a lawful order issued in the exercise of these powers by Council shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and punishable by a fine of not less than $50 nor more than $500.