Hearing Officers shall have the following powers:
(A) All powers authorized by state statute (see e.g., 55 ILCS 5/5-41005 to 5/5-41060) including, but not limited to, the following:
(1) Preside at administrative hearings called to determine whether a code violation exists;
(2) Hear testimony and accept evidence from the Code Enforcement Officer, the respondent, and all interested parties relevant to the existence of a code violation;
(3) Preserve and authenticate the record of the hearing and all the exhibits and evidence introduced at the hearing;
(4) Issue and sign written findings and a decision and order stating whether a code violation exists; and
(5) Impose penalties consistent with applicable code provisions and to assess costs reasonably related to instituting the proceedings upon finding the respondent liable for the charged violation. In no event, however, shall the Hearing Officer have the authority to impose a penalty of incarceration.
(B) Hold conferences for the settlement or simplification of issues;
(C) Administer oaths and affirmations;
(D) Rule upon motions, objections, and the admissibility of evidence;
(E) Subject to the provisions of this chapter, subpoena relevant witnesses and the production of relevant documents, records, or other information; and
(F) Exercise all powers and duties necessary and proper to the administration of fair hearings.
(Prior Code, 1 TCC 6-6)