1. (a) If a petition filed under section 1 of this chapter meets the requirements set forth in sections 1 through 4 of this chapter, the board shall do the following:

   1. (1) Not more than sixty (60) days after the filing of the petition, give due notice that a hearing will be held concerning the petition.
   2. (2) Pay all expenses arising from the issuance of the notice and the holding of the hearing.
   3. (3) Conduct the hearing.

2. (b) The hearing held on the petition shall be open to the public. The following may testify at the hearing:

   1. (1) A land occupier whose tract of land is located within the district or territory referred to in the petition.
   2. (2) An individual of voting age who resides within the district or territory referred to in the petition.

3. (c) Testimony may be presented at the hearing concerning:

   1. (1) the desirability and necessity, in the interest of the public welfare, of granting the petition;

   2. (2) the validity of:

      1. (A) the petition; and
      2. (B) proceedings conducted on the petition under this chapter; and
   3. (3) all questions relevant to the petition.

As added by P.L.136-1997, SEC.35.