The examiner shall be engaged by written contract, and shall be compensated on such basis, whether hourly or by case as the city council may determine in approving the contract. The estimated amount for the examiner to conduct any hearing and make a decision or recommendation on any matter shall be included in the fee deposit required by CEMC 16.48, and it shall be the responsibility of the applicant for any permit, approval, or appeal to pay for the actual cost of the examiner’s service unless otherwise determined by the city council.