The Hearing Officer:

1. (a) Is responsible for the administrative preparations for the hearing;
2. (b) Convenes the hearing as soon as is reasonable;
3. (c) Administers oaths and affirmations;
4. (d) Issues subpoenas, at the request of either party or on the Hearing Officer's motion;
5. (e) Rules on offers of proof and receives relevant evidence;
6. (f) Takes depositions or has depositions taken when the ends of justice would be served;
7. (g) Conducts the hearing in a manner which is fair and impartial;
8. (h) Holds conferences for the settlement or simplification of the issues by consent of the parties;
9. (i) Disposes of procedural requests or similar matters;
10. (j) Requires production of documents; and
11. (k) Makes an initial decision under § 824.13.