Minutes - Council - 07/23/2002 - Laserfiche WebLink

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I am writing this letter in regards to an incident that happened last week at the city charter commission meeting. This is a very difficult matter to deal with so please bear with me. I was at the podium giving my opinion on a particular matter that was on the agenda on the charter commission when I was very rudely interrupted by Mr. Jim Norman, City Administrator." City Administrator Nonrian interrupted to state that this should be considered by the Personnel Committee. Mayor Gamec explained the process to have an item that deals with City personnel considered by the Personnel Committee if it is inflammatory towards a Councilmember or City staff member. He explained that the Council needs to assure there is no liability against the City. Mr. Raygor stated he is not anticipating taking litigation on behalf of this matter, if that is the Council's concern. Councilmember Hendriksen suggested it be heard until the City Attorney advises that it is libelous. City Attorney Goodrich stated it is usually heard at the Personnel Committee but it is up to the Council to decide if it should be considered tonight or at a future Personnel Committee meeting. He explained the Charter provides for that process to occur. Motion by Mayor Gamec, seconded by Councilmember Kurak, to refer this item concerning Mr. Raygor's issue with Mr. Norman to the next scheduled Personnel Committee meeting where Mr. Raygor can present his information Further discussion: City Attorney Goodrich noted the Personnel Committee is a public meeting. Mayor Gamec suggested Mr. Raygor review the issue with the City Attorney to assure the City is protected fi'om a libelous situation. Councilmember Zimmerman stated he does not know what this is about but thinks Mr. Raygor should be given a time to speak. Councilmember Hendriksen suggested each member be provided with a copy of Mr. Raygor's letter so the Council can take a moment to review it and decide if Mr. Raygor should be able to read it. Councilmember Kurak asked Mr. Raygor if he has the copy of the Charter Commission meeting tape. Mr. Raygor stated it is his personal copy that he recorded off cable television. Mr. Raygor provided each member with a copy of the letter for their review. Mayor Gamec asked that the letter to be entered into the record and asked for further discussion. Councilmember Hendriksen stated the Council is liberal with criticism of certain people, such as himself, but when done by a majority member it is different. He stated he did take issue with what happened at the meeting but now it appears the majority want. s to censure the issue. City Attorney Goodrich clarified that the motion is to refer the issue to a public meeting that is broadcast on cable television and does not hide anything. Councilmember Hendriksen stated if that is the outcome then great but he does not suspect that will happen. Councilmember Kurak asked Councilmember Hendriksen to explain why he City Council/July 23, 2002 Page 3 of 30