In all cases in which the attendance of witnesses may be compelled for an investigation, under section 505.494 of the Revised Code, any member of the board of township trustees or of the joint police district board may administer the requisite oaths. The board has the same power to compel the giving of testimony by attending witnesses as is conferred upon courts. In all such cases, witnesses shall be entitled to the same privileges and immunities as are allowed witnesses in civil cases. Witnesses shall be paid the fees and mileage provided for under section 1901.26 of the Revised Code, and the costs of all such proceedings shall be payable from the general fund of the township or joint police district.