Any party defendant may answer such motion for judgment within seven days after the second publication thereof but not thereafter.  Any property owner, taxpayer, citizen, or other person in interest may become a party to said proceedings by pleading to the motion within seven days after the second publication thereof, or thereafter by intervention upon leave of court.  In the event no answers or pleadings are filed by any person with respect to the motion or judgment within the time set forth in the preceding sentences of this Section, the plaintiff may file a motion requesting the court to consider and pass upon questions certified therein in rendering its judgment.  At the time and place designated in the order for hearing, the judge shall proceed to hear and determine all questions of law and fact in said cause and may make such orders as to the proceedings and such adjournments as will enable him properly to try and determine the same and to render a final judgment therein with the least possible delay.  To the extent possible and practicable under the circumstances, judgment shall be rendered within ten days after the hearing is concluded.  

Acts 1972, No. 385, §1, eff. July 26, 1972.  Amended by Acts 1975, No. 230, §1, eff. July 16, 1975.