The Panel shall conduct the hearing, if a hearing is held. The executive director may order the consolidation of petitions for hearing. The Panel may require attendance at a prehearing conference by the parties or their representatives, if the Panel believes that such conference will aid in the efficient conduct of the hearing, narrow the issues to be resolved at the hearing, or allow the parties to explore opportunities for settlement.
12- 186 C.M.R. ch. 2, § 17