(A) In case of failure of conference and conciliation to attain compliance with this chapter, the Village Manager shall proceed to hear the complaint. The Village Manager shall serve upon the person charged with having engaged in the discriminatory practice, referred to as the respondent, a statement of the charges made in the complaint and a notice of the time and place of the hearing. Such statement of charges and notice shall be sent by certified mail (return receipt requested) to the respondent at his last known address at least 10 days prior to the date set for the hearing.
(B) The respondent shall have the right within 5 days after the service on him of the statement of charges and notice of hearing to file an answer to the statement of charges. He shall also have the right to be represented by counsel, to appear at the hearing in person, to present evidence in his own behalf and to examine and cross-examine witnesses.
(C) The Village Manager shall not be bound by the strict rules of evidence and shall have the power to administer oaths, to take sworn testimony and to subpoena witnesses, documents and records. The Village Manager may adopt such rules of procedure for the conduct of hearings as are deemed necessary.
(D) Within 5 days after the conclusion of any hearing, the Village Manager shall render a decision. If the respondent is notified to attend a hearing before the Village Manager and he fails to attend such hearing, the Village Manager may proceed to hold such hearing and make a determination in such person's absence.
(1997 Code, § 6.10)