At the date and time set, a hearing shall be held by the city council. The hearing shall be open to the public. The owner may be represented by counsel. The city council shall hear all pertinent evidence offered by all interested persons. The technical rules of evidence shall not be applicable to the hearing. All persons giving evidence shall be sworn before testifying. The owner may employ a shorthand reporter to report the hearing. The council may continue said hearing from time to time. (Prior code § 7787)