(1) Any owner of property, taxpayer, elector or rate payer, in the political subdivision or any other person interested in the bond, obligation or agreements or security instrument related thereto, or otherwise interested in the premises may appear and move to dismiss or answer the petition at any time prior to the date fixed for the hearing or within such further time as may be allowed by the court.
(2)  The petition shall be taken as confessed by all persons who fail to so appear.