Agenda - Council - 01/14/2020 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Charter Commission Chairperson Fields agreed that is an excellent point as detailed information was provided to the Commission for review by the City Attorney and excellent discussion was had. He commented that it would be helpful for the Council to have access to those meeting minutes to review the process the Commission went through to come to this recommendation. Administrative Services Director Lasher noted that the draft minutes from the Charter Commission were distributed to the City Council to provide them with that information. Mayor LeTourneau asked for information on the history and background on why Ramsey chose to use the primary system. Charter Commission Chairperson Fields stated that he did not have that information but noted that Commissioner Deemer would perhaps have that information because of his tenure on the Commission. Councilmember Specht stated that he has concern with the Council making direct appointments. He used the example of Big Lake, which currently has four out of five members appointed rather than elected. Charter Commissioner Chairperson Fields stated that it was his belief that process was mandated by State law but noted that he could be mistaken. City Attorney Langel stated that he was unsure if that exact process is mandated by State law. He noted that if there is an opening on the Council it needs to be filled as soon as possible. He noted that the timelines and allowed dates for an election have an impact on the ability to fill that position quickly and therefore the proposed guide was developed which would allow appointment dependent upon when the vacancy occurs. He stated that the guide was developed with the intent of balancing the need to fill a vacancy on the Council in a timely and cost-effective manner, while still allowing public input. Administrative Director Lasher commented that the total cost for a special election, including the primary would be about $30,000. Mayor LeTourneau commented that there still seem to be a lot of questions and does not expect there to be a unanimous vote tonight at the regular meeting. Councilmember Heinrich asked what would happen next if the vote is not passed. City Administrator Ulrich stated that if there was clear direction and consensus of the Council, the proposed changes could be suggested to the Charter Commission. He stated that he would suggest that the Council hold another worksession, with members of the Charter Commission, to discuss options that would work for everyone. He recognized that the language needs to be amended in order to clean up the language and become compliant with State law. Councilmember Specht asked if there are any deadlines to become compliant with State law. City Council Work Session / December 10, 2019 Page 6 of 8