(a) The executive director may issue an order requiring an alleged violator to show cause why a penalty should not be assessed in accordance with the provisions of this Chapter and section 15.17 of the compact. The order to the alleged violator shall:

1. (1) specify the nature and duration of violation(s) that is alleged to have occurred;
2. (2) set forth the date by which the alleged violator must provide a written response to the order;
3. (3) identify the civil penalty recommended by commission staff.

(b) The written response by the project sponsor should include the following:

1. (1) a statement whether the project sponsor contests that the violations outlined in the order occurred;
2. (2) if the project sponsor contests the violations, then a statement of the relevant facts and/or law providing the basis for the project sponsor’s position;
3. (3) any mitigating factors or explanation regarding the violations outlined in the order; and
4. (4) a statement explaining what the appropriate civil penalty, if any, should be utilizing the factors at section 1808.16 of this Part.