Minutes - Council Work Session - 01/12/2021

Home

Councilmember Riley stated that the Council went through the RFP process seven years ago and since that time only moderate or expected increases have been involved. He stated that the process of switching representation was time consuming and painful. Councilmember Musgrove appreciated that perspective. Mayor Kuzma commented that the attorney was previously present at every meeting but by not requiring his presence at every meeting provided a cost savings. City Attorney Langel stated that the original retainer included all meeting attendance, but a cost savings was able to be provided by not requiring that attendance, as 90 percent of the Ramsey meetings do not require input from the City Attorney. He stated that in the past years his hourly rate has only increased by ten dollars per hour, which is well under the typical legal fee. He noted that there is no increase proposed for the retainer. Councilmember Specht asked the number of cities City Attorney Langel represents. City Attorney Langel believed he represented 12 municipalities while his firm represents additional municipalities. He commented that he does not represent any cities that border Ramsey, therefore a conflict should not arise. Councilmember Howell asked the typical length for the City contract for legal services. City Attorney Langel commented that two to three years are typical contract lengths, going up to five years which typically establishes the retainer amount. He stated that each contract has a 30- day clause therefore the City can terminate the contract if desired. Mayor Kuzma commented that in his experience City Attorney Langel has provided outstanding service to the City. City Administrator Ulrich stated that the information discussed tonight will be inserted to the draft resolution for formal action at the regular meeting tonight. Councilmember Musgrove asked if the appointed doctor provided input on the pandemic. Police Chief Katers replied that most of the guiding information was gained through the emergency response guidance from the Minnesota Department of Health and Anoka County. He commented that at one point in time all the new hires for the Police Department had to see the appointed doctor for a physical, but that was a long time ago. 2.02: Discussion Regarding Union Contract Negotiations for LELS-Patrol & LELS- Sergeants (Discussion Closed to the Public) Administrative Services Director Lasher suggested that the Council enter closed session to discuss contract negotiations with LELS-Patrol and LELS-Sergeants. City Council Work Session / January 12, 2021 Page 5 of 6