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<br />City Administrator Ulrich stated Mr. Knaak clarified that issue in his response letter. <br /> <br />Councilmember Specht stated he was impressed with Mr. Knaak’s experience and knowledge, and <br />he would be able to utilize his experience. <br /> <br />Councilmember Woestehoff stated the City Council indicated a few weeks ago in their comments <br />that Mr. Knaak would not be moved forward, and he felt that was a strong recommendation from <br />the City Council, and he would defer to the City Staff in this matter. <br /> <br />Councilmember Woestehoff stated it seemed like Mr. Knaak is great in meetings. He added the <br />City Council should decide whether they want someone who gets the legal work done, or someone <br />who wants to be on tv. <br /> <br />Commissioner Heineman asked Commissioner Woestehoff whether that is an assumption. He <br />added he does not remember Mr. Knaak making those comments. <br /> <br />Councilmember Woestehoff stated Mr. Knaak served as legal counsel for Norm Coleman’s <br />recount attempt. He added he would strongly support Hoff & Barry as the better choice for the <br />City. <br /> <br />Councilmember Howell asked where Councilmember Woestehoff found his information on Mr. <br />Knaak. <br /> <br />Councilmember Woestehoff stated he did some research in the local paper. <br /> <br />Councilmember Howell stated she did research into Mr. Knaak’s legislative background, which <br />interested her quite a bit. She added he understands the legislative process, which will be a benefit <br />if the City wants to pursue LGA dollars. She noted she is not interested in an attorney who gives <br />policy preferences. She expressed her support for Mr. Knaak. <br /> <br />Councilmember Musgrove asked what is the average time spent on a case. She asked if 10 hours <br />is reasonable, or if a total of 15 hours could be pursued, and then billable after that. She asked <br />whether there would be a consensus to request 15 hours per case. <br /> <br />City Administrator Ulrich stated the majority of cases could be completed in 10 hours with a few <br />exceptions. He added 10 hours is Mr. Knaak’s proposal, but the City could counter with something <br />rd <br />else. He noted Mr. Knaak’s offer is pretty low already, and he is offering 3 party billing <br />reimbursement. <br /> <br />Mayor Kuzma asked about the current monthly retainer. <br /> <br />City Administrator Ulrich stated the current retainer is $3,200 per month with an additional $500 <br />per meeting upon request. He added he would need to clarify but he believes Mr. Knaak’s retainer <br />does not include meetings. <br /> <br />City Council Work Session / September 14, 2021 <br />Page 4 of 15 <br /> <br />