(a) At least sixty (60) days before any contract is let or work begun upon any plan, improvement or project within the watershed of Mill Creek, which would result in the condemnation of any land, as provided in this chapter, a public hearing shall be held. Notice of the public hearing shall be by publication in a newspaper of general circulation in each of Davidson, Williamson and Rutherford counties. The publication shall be run once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks, the last of which shall be at least ten (10) days before the date set for the hearing. The notice shall generally contain the nature and scope of the proposed project, the estimated cost, the proposed method for the payment of the cost and the time and place of the hearing and shall notify the interested persons and landowners to appear and show cause why such project should not be approved and performed and of their right to be represented by counsel.

(b) The hearing required by this chapter may be conducted by the chair of the authority or by hearing examiners designated by such chair who shall conduct such hearings in the name of such authority.

(c) Opportunity shall be afforded all parties to respond in person or by attorney and present evidence and argument on all issues involved.

(d) A record of the proceedings and of those who testify shall be taken and preserved. The record shall be made available on request to any person upon payment of a reasonable charge to cover the costs of preparation.

(e) Findings of fact shall be based exclusively on the evidence and on matters officially noticed.