Norwalk, Conn., Code of Ordinances ch. 39 § 39-7

A. Upon a receipt of a complaint that a rental is so excessive as to be harsh and unconscionable, the Commission and/or Commission staff shall investigate the complaint, and the Commission shall determine whether the complaint presents an appropriate matter for consideration by the Commission. In the event that the Commission finds that the complaint also involves a matter within the jurisdiction of the Health or Fire Departments of the City of Norwalk or of any other public agency, it shall refer the matter to the appropriate board or agency for action while concurrently exercising its own powers hereunder. B. A hearing on said complaint shall be scheduled if the Commission determines, after receipt of the complaint, that a hearing is justified. Written notice of the date, time and place of the hearing shall be given by mailing notice thereof, by certified mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid, to the landlord and the tenant, at least seven days prior to said hearing. The persons entitled to receive said notice as set forth herein are hereinafter designated as the parties to the complaint. C. At the hearing, each party shall have the right to offer such testimony, exhibits and witnesses as the party deems necessary or appropriate. D. The testimony of all persons shall be under oath, and any member of the Commission is hereby authorized to administer the oath to a witness. E. The Commission shall have the power to subpoena any person to appear before the Commission and shall have the power to compel the production of any books or documents relating to any matter before the Commission. F. Any party shall have the right to be represented by an attorney at any hearing. In addition, any party shall have the right, either himself or through his attorney, to cross-examine any witnesses produced at the hearing and to examine all documents offered in evidence. G. The Commission shall have the right to request the assistance of any department of the city government, including any available records, information or expert witnesses which the agency may have in its employ. H. The Commission is empowered to hire or retain any expert real estate appraisers or other competent experts to advise it. I. In the event that there is insufficient time to complete a hearing, the Commission shall have the power to adjourn the hearing to another time and date. J. After the completion of the public hearing and the receipt of all evidence, testimony and exhibits to be submitted by the parties to it, the Commission shall meet and shall make such orders as are authorized herein. K. The Commission shall retain a competent stenographer to record the evidence, minutes and proceedings of the Commission on any complaint. Also, an electronic recording by a qualified court reporter shall be made of each hearing. L. The Commission shall have the power to delegate to the Commission staff the ability to investigate and meet with the parties to a complaint on an informal basis in an attempt to reconcile their differences. Any agreement reached between the parties as a result of said informal conference must be in writing and must be submitted to the Commission for approval, and said agreement shall include a waiver of appearance of the parties.