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<br />The Finance Committee extended their compliments to Mr. Phaney who was assisting Ms. Smith <br />with this issue. Mr. Phaney stated he was pleased the Finance Committee recognized that and <br />added they are doing a service to the City. <br /> <br />Chairperson Strommen added that this issue sheds a light on a bigger issue than what we have <br />just discussed. <br /> <br />Case #2: <br /> <br />Resolution Regarding China Billing <br /> <br />Councilmember Strommen stated that all the Committee members are familiar with the <br />background of the issues with the China trip billing. This was discussed again at the last work <br />session and we are looking for final resolution. <br /> <br />Finance Officer Lund commented she was under the impression she would have the entire City <br />Council present for this discussion. <br /> <br />Councilmember Strommen stated the Committee would recap the discussion during the City <br />Council meeting. <br /> <br />Councilmember Jeffrey expressed the concern that if the City allows all its <br />consultants/contractors the opportunity to run past the maximum dollars we have set, we will be <br />setting a precedent. <br /> <br />Motion by Councilmember Jeffrey and seconded for discussion by Councilmember Elvig that the <br />City Council stick to the not to exceed numbers for the China billing and pay HSP & Associates <br />up to the not to exceed numbers - and no more. <br /> <br />Further discussion: Councilmember Strommen stated her concern is that the City does not have <br />proper invoicing for that $9,500 and she did not want to see any money paid out until they see <br />that. She is fine with whatever Finance Officer Lund deems necessary as proof - not only for the <br />outstanding bill but for what we have already paid. <br /> <br />Councilmember Elvig stated portions of this money authorized were not to go for travel. This <br />whole issue exposes something that's broken within our operation. Per direction, Mr. Hegg was <br />paid; however, Ms. Lund did not feel comfortable doing so without proper documentation for the <br />charges. He continued that we (Council) look at what's accurate to pay to date - what we have <br />accurate invoices for. He asked Councilmember Jeffrey if he would consider re-crafting his <br />motion to include that language. <br /> <br />Councilmember Jeffrey commented on the $9,500 that was authorized by Council, and Ms. Lund <br />would have the authority to determine what should be paid, however, he inquired if Ms. Lund <br />would like assistance to make that determination. <br /> <br />Ms. Lund stated that what's remaining on the consultant's side is $2,100 in receipts for travel. <br />There have been no receipts for hotels, meals, etc. <br />