The hearing shall be conducted in such manner as the board of county commissioners deems best suited to the occasion. Where the territory is in two or more counties the county commissioners of the counties involved shall sit as a joint board with the chairman of the board of the county having the greater or greatest area presiding: Provided, That if he or she be not present, all of the commissioners present shall choose one of their number as presiding officer. All persons residing within the territory, owners of property within the territory whether residing there or not, all persons, agencies, and representatives of governmental units notified as provided in K.S.A. 15-119, shall be entitled to be heard and to present documentary information and briefs. The hearing may be adjourned from time to time.
K.S.A. 15-120