Such appeal may be heard by the court, but may, upon the motion of any party thereto, be referred for a hearing to a committee appointed by such court, which shall report to it the facts and their findings thereon. If, after the hearing of any appeal, the court shall find cause to alter such appraisal of damages or assessment of benefits, it may alter the damages appraised in favor of any person's damage, and the assessment of benefits upon the persons whose lands are specially benefited.