(1) The board may obtain assistance concerning the appeal of any case within the scope of RCW 82.03.130 (1)(b) (appeals from a county board of equalization) from the staff of the department of revenue as provided by RCW 82.03.160. The board will notify the parties of its intent to seek such assistance and the matters sought to be investigated before contacting the department of revenue. Parties may recommend an alternative to the board to achieve the same objectives without contacting the department of revenue.

(2) Any evidence from the department of revenue concerning assistance requested under this section shall only be presented in open hearing after notice to all parties.