A. As provided by Section 9.94.030, the hearing officer hears all appeals in accordance with the procedures contained in this Chapter or as supplemented or modified in the chapter granting a right to appeal hereunder.
B. The hearing officer is authorized to issue decisions and take all actions necessary and proper to carry out the functions of the hearing officer in this Chapter, including:
(1) Hold conferences for settlement or simplification of the issues;
(2) Administer oaths and affirmations;
(3) Hear testimony;
(4) Rule upon motions, objections, and the admissibility of evidence;
(5) Preserve and authenticate the record of the hearing and all exhibits and evidence introduced at the hearing;
(6) Regulate the course of the hearing in accordance with this Chapter or other applicable law; and
(7) Issue a final order which includes findings of fact and conclusions of law.
C. The hearing officer may request information, services, facilities, or any other assistance for the purpose of furthering the objectives of this Chapter.
D. At the hearing, the hearing officer must hear and consider the testimony of the appellant, respondent, and their witnesses, as well as any documentary evidence presented by these persons.
E. The hearing officer must ensure that parties receive a fair hearing and are afforded due process in accordance with the applicable State and federal law governing such hearings.
(Ord. MC-1521, 9-18-19)