The Council shall be the judge of the election and qualifications of its own members. Council may by at least a two-thirds (2/3s) vote of all of its members eligible to vote, expel or remove any member for gross misconduct, malfeasance, nonfeasance, misfeasance in or disqualification for office; for the conviction while in office of a crime involving moral turpitude; for persistent failure to abide by the rules of Council; or for absence without justifiable excuse from three consecutive regular meetings thereof. Prior to any action by Council, the member whose removal is sought shall be notified in writing of the charge or charges against them at least ten (10) days prior to a hearing upon such charge or charges and they shall be given the opportunity to secure counsel and to be heard. They shall be given the opportunity to present any evidence that they may deem necessary in their defense and to examine under oath any witness appearing in support of the charges brought.