The hearing examiner shall not conduct or participate in any hearing or decision in which the hearing examiner has a direct or indirect personal interest which might exert such influence upon the examiner that might improperly interfere with the decision-making process. Any actual or potential conflict of interest shall be disclosed to the parties immediately upon discovery of such conflict and the examiner shall abstain from any further proceedings in the matter unless all parties agree in writing to have the matter heard by that hearing examiner.

No person shall attempt to interfere with or improperly influence the hearing examiner in the performance of designated duties. This provision shall not prohibit the city attorney from providing legal advice to the hearing examiner. [Ord. 2000-05-023].