Agenda - Council - 09/28/2021 - Laserfiche WebLink

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City Administrator Ulrich stated Ms. Schwarzhoff stated she would be open to a retainer, so a retainer number could be provided for her. He added he would like to get some feedback from other city clients. Councilmember Woestehoff stated Mr. Langel scored high for him, but he is okay with taking him off the list, as well as Kennedy Graven. He added he does not believe Mr. Knaak is the top choice, but keep it open for discovery. Mayor Kuzma stated he is concerned that Mr. Knaak is a small firm, with one man, and he agrees that could be an issue. Councilmember Musgrove stated there are more people in his firm. She added she is unsure why everyone thinks he is the only one, when there are 4 attorneys and a paralegal listed for his firm in the RFP. Councilmember Heineman stated Mr. Knaak indicated he was a one-man show, and that he would be handling everything. He added he had other people outside of his organization as backups but would not involve other people in his firm. He noted he referred to himself as the sole proprietor that Ramsey would be dealing with, but he did say there were a few other people. Councilmember Specht stated it seems that the consensus is Hoff Barry, so that is something to look into. He added more information could be gathered about Mr. Knaak, even though some people may be unsure about him. Councilmember Musgrove stated she would support a retainer with Hoff Barry. She asked whether it would be appropriate to let Hoff Barry know that there could be reconsideration regarding retainer vs. hourly rate. City Administrator Ulrich stated a full definition of what is included in the retainer in the RFP should be included, and references should be contacted. He added a 30-day notification of termination of contract will be required for the current City attorney. Mayor Kuzma stated the City Council should decide who to pursue, and whether to ask for 20 hours or 25 hours. City Administrator Ulrich stated a contract will be required, which will include a retainer and evaluation after 6 months, as well as an adjustment provision. Councilmember Woestehoff stated this is where he struggles. He added he understands the point of a flat rate during a transition period, but the flat rate encourages the absolute minimum amount of work to increase profitability. He noted he would prefer to see an hourly rate, but he is happy to do a retainer. He expressed concern that an hourly rate will be more representative in 6 months of what the city is getting from the City Attorney. City Council Special Work Session / August 23, 2021 Page 20 of 22