Minutes - Council Work Session - 08/23/2021 - Special

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Mr. Anderson stated he advises cities that increasing franchise fees really only passes the costs on to your residents. He added, however, it is a tool that cities can use, although it can be seen as raising taxes in a roundabout way. He noted it is important for cities to keep that in mind. How would you describe the role and relationship the City Attorney has with individual City Council Members? Mr. Anderson stated every city is a little different, and the relationship starts with mutual respect. He added City Councilmembers have an important role, serving their communities and protecting the city. He noted Councilmembers can call him and ask questions, although he respects that many cities have policies about that. Mr. Anderson stated City Councilmembers have a difficult job, and he respects and admires their dedication. He added as long as there is mutual respect and support, everything will go smoothly between the City Attorney and City Councilmembers. Do you have any concerns with any of the terms outlined in the RFP? Mr. Anderson stated he does not have any concerns about the RFP. He added, if he were lucky enough to be appointed as Ramsey’s City Attorney, he would be open to whatever kind of contract the City Council is comfortable with. He noted he is open to a retainer if that is the preference, but he would like to talk about that beforehand. Any other questions and/or concerns? Mr. Anderson stated he does not have any more questions. HOFF BARRY, P.A. Please describe the backgrounds of attorney(s) from your firm who will be assigned to Ramsey. Sarah Schwarzhoff, Hoff Barry, stated she would be assigned to be the City Attorney for Ramsey. She added she has been practicing municipal law for 13 years, since she graduated from law school in 2008. She noted she attends City Council meetings, Planning Commission meetings and works with City Staff on resolutions and ordinances, works with City Councilmembers when necessary, and sometimes even works with residents. How will your law firm make Ramsey a priority and meet the terms outlined in the RFP for meeting attendance, response time for council/staff inquiries, document review turn-around, and office hours? Ms. Schwarzhoff stated the City of Ramsey would be her primary responsibility and her priority, and she has some other clients but they are smaller than Ramsey. She added she would attend all City Council meetings unless she is on vacation or ill, and then someone else from her office will be ready and prepped on all the issues. She noted she returns phone calls within 1-2 hours, responds to emails right away, and meets document review deadlines. She noted there are 3 other City Council Special Work Session / August 23, 2021 Page 14 of 22