The state comptroller shall appoint and supervise an administrator of the fund. The administrator shall be the chief executive of the fund and shall have the following powers and duties:

1. 1. To represent the state in meetings with the alleged discharger and claimants concerning liability for the discharge and amount of the claims;
2. 2. To determine if hearings are needed to settle particular claims filed by injured persons;
3. 3. To convene hearings;
4. 4. To certify the amount of claims and names of claimants to the state comptroller;
5. 5. To disburse moneys from the fund for cleanup and removal costs pursuant to a certification of claims by the commissioner.