Both the appointing authority and the accused shall have the right to be represented by legal counsel at all stages of the commission’s investigation and hearing. In addition, the commission may, in its discretion, retain independent counsel at city expense to assist the commission in the conduct of the hearing process. (Ord. 1380 § 1, 1990; Ord. 1247 § 1, 1987; Ord. 1190 § 1, 1985; Ord. 895 § 2, 1978).