2-4-612. Hearing -- rules of evidence, cross-examination, judicial notice. (1) Opportunity shall be afforded all parties to respond and present evidence and argument on all issues involved.

(2) Except as otherwise provided by statute relating directly to an agency, agencies shall be bound by common law and statutory rules of evidence. Objections to evidentiary offers may be made and shall be noted in the record. When a hearing will be expedited and the interests of the parties will not be prejudiced substantially, any part of the evidence may be received in written form.

(3) Documentary evidence may be received in the form of copies or excerpts if the original is not readily available. Upon request, parties shall be given an opportunity to compare the copy with the original.

(4) All testimony shall be given under oath or affirmation.

(5) A party shall have the right to conduct cross-examinations required for a full and true disclosure of facts, including the right to cross-examine the author of any document prepared by or on behalf of or for the use of the agency and offered in evidence.

(6) Notice may be taken of judicially cognizable facts. In addition, notice may be taken of generally recognized technical or scientific facts within the agency's specialized knowledge. Parties shall be notified either before or during the hearing or by reference in preliminary reports or otherwise of the material noticed, including any staff memoranda or data. They shall be afforded an opportunity to contest the material so noticed.

(7) The agency's experience, technical competence, and specialized knowledge may be utilized in the evaluation of evidence.