The administrative hearing shall be conducted as follows:
A. The administrative hearing shall be conducted by a Hearing Officer who is an attorney licensed to practice law in this State for a minimum of three (3) years.
B. Pursuant to 625 Illinois Compiled Statutes 5/11-208.3(b)(4), the formal or technical rules of evidence shall not apply during the hearing. The hearing shall be recorded. The person conducting the hearing shall be empowered to administer oaths and to secure by subpoena both the attendance and testimony of witnesses and the production of relevant books and papers. Persons who appear at the hearing may be represented by counsel at their own expense.
C. At the conclusion of the hearing, the Hearing Officer shall issue a written decision, either sustaining or overruling the vehicle impoundment, and a copy of the written decision shall be served upon the owner, lessee, and any lien holder of record either by personal service or by first class mail sent to the interested party's address as registered with the Secretary of State.
D. If the basis for the impoundment is sustained, any administrative fee posted to secure the release of the vehicle shall be forfeited to the City.
E. All final decisions of the Administrative Hearing Officer shall be subject to review under the provisions of the Administrative Review Law.
F. Unless the Administrative Hearing Officer overturns the basis for the impoundment, no vehicle shall be released until all administrative fees and towing and storage charges are paid. (Ord. 2014-8, 3-10-2015)