Minutes - Council - 08/08/1995 - Laserfiche WebLink

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between Mayor Hardin and Councilmembers Peterson and Beahen with City Administrator Schroeder appeared to be a prearranged private meeting which would be in violation of the open meeting law. He suggested the meeting was intended to exclude Councilmembers Beyer and Zimmerman. The fax continued that on August 7, 1995, Councilmember Peterson will be representing the pro-development position opposing the proposed charter amendment. He stated that Councilmembers Peterson and Beahen, along with Mayor Hardin, comprise the pro-development "council of three" in Ramsey. "This creates sufficient justification to believe this meeting was arranged to discuss the upcoming charter amendment and QCTV program". Mr. Hendriksen asked that these officials be alerted to the provisions of the open meeting law and refrain from prohibited activities. Councilmember Beahen felt that the only thing missing from Mr. Hendriksen's statement is "once upon a time" as it is complete fiction. The only correct portion is the date, the time, and the parties involved. She reiterated that she asked to speak with Councilmember Peterson. This is not a violation of the open meeting law. She reviewed such law and noted the portion talking about a chance or social gathering. She read the rest of the law for Council/public information. Mr. Hendriksen had suggested that Councilmembers Beyer and Zimmerman were intentionally excluded. She stated that she chose to have a private conversation with Councilmember Peterson and no one else. Councilmember Beahen stated that she represents the people who elected her and that she will make decisions on their behalf, following review of the issue. She stated that she did not violate any open meeting law. Mr. Hendriksen again submitted total false information. She found it ironic that he represents Ramsey Residents for Responsible Government. She felt that Mr. Hendriksen's accusations were void of fact and that he owes members of this Council an apology. Councilmember Peterson stated that at no time did either Councilmember Beahen or he talk about the issue with Mr. Hendriksen; that was not the issue that was being discussed. Mr. Hendriksen continues to try to drive a wedge in this Council and accuses individuals of misdoings. He stated he is not sure what his reason is. Councilmember Zimmerman stated that "we had better be careful about what we are doing in the offices, do it in the corridor where everyone sees us". He commented about having three Councilmembers. Councilmember Peterson said that "three of us were not back there". Councilmember Zimmerman stated that three members of the Council were indeed together. Councilmember Beyer stated that this reiterates what she has said to Mr. Schroeder - in lieu of what's been said, we need a good educational session, we need an objective third party to come in to give us the pitfitlls on conflict of interest and the possible violation of the open meeting law. Once you go behind closed doors, no one knows what you are doing. Councilmember Beahen stated that as far as Terry Hendriksen is concerned, it is unprofessional and unfounded that he would surmise conclusions and submit them as fact. Often times after a meeting, some of us will go back to the offices to gather our papers, etc. from our mail boxes. To assume because we are together that we would be doing something wrong is ludicrous. Councilmember Beyer stated that's why we need this workshop. 3) Review of Calendar of Meetings for Council City Council/August 8, 1995 Page 14 of 15