If a Contestant fails to appear. at the place, date, and time specified in -a notice, the hearing officer may, within his discretion:
a. Continue the hearing to a later date and provide notice as prescribed by Section 6. b.(2) herein; or
b. Proceed to conduct the hearing without the contestant and dispose of the contested case as provided herein.
048-1 Wyo. Code R. § 1-7