If the franchisee disputes the reasonableness of the charges, it may seek review of the assessment by filing a protest with the Board of Trustees within thirty (30) days of the mailing of the bill. The protest shall state the grounds on which the protest is based. The Town Clerk shall schedule the matter for public hearing before the Board of Trustees on the next available Board agenda and notify the franchisee of the date and time for the hearing by certified mail, return receipt requested. Said hearing shall be for the purpose of hearing protest as to the reasonableness of the expenses incurred. At the hearing, the franchisee may present evidence regarding the reasonableness of the charges. The franchisee shall bear the burden of proof. At the hearing, the franchisee and the Town staff shall have the opportunity to present evidence in the form of documents, exhibits and witnesses. The Board of Trustees shall have all the powers to ensure a fair and efficient hearing, but shall not be bound by the Colorado Rules of Evidence. The hearing shall be open to the public. The Board of Trustees may approve the assessment or make modifications based upon the evidence presented. Any action by the Board of Trustees shall be final and payment must be made within seven (7) days. Nonpayment shall constitute a material breach of the negotiation process or the terms of the franchise. If a franchise has been awarded prior to a refusal to pay billed expenses, the Board of Trustees may void the franchise as provided in the franchise agreement. If a franchise has not been awarded prior to the refusal to pay billed expenses, the Town is under no obligation to resume negotiations until such payment is made. (Ord. 336 § 4, 1991)