The Hearing Officer:
Is responsible for the administrative preparations for the hearing;
Convenes the hearing as soon as is reasonable;
Administers oaths and affirmations;
Issues subpoenas, at the request of either party or on the Hearing Officer's motion;
Rules on offers of proof and receives relevant evidence;
Takes depositions or has depositions taken when the ends of justice would be served;
Conducts the hearing in a manner which is fair and impartial;
Holds conferences for the settlement or simplification of the issues by consent of the parties;
Disposes of procedural requests or similar matters;
Requires production of documents; and
Makes an initial decision under § 824.13.