04/14/1997 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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COUNCIL MINUTES APRIL 14, 1997 even though the Council is taking on different duties, he is not sure this is allowed. Council Member Kuether stated this is a new job and is not an increase in the City Council's `salary.' Council Member Bergeson agreed that it is not an increase but may still be perceived as the current Council giving themselves a raise. Mr. Schumacher stated under Minnesota Statute 41511, which Council Member Bergeson is referring to, outlines the actual salary of the Council Members. Mr. Hawkins stated his impression is Council Member Bergeson is not stating that it is illegal, he is stating since Council Members cannot raise their own salary, why should they be able to increase their pay in a round about way. Council Member Bergeson stated it is apparently legal, but it appears to the residents the current Council gave themselves a raise. Mr. Hawkins replied he does not know exactly how it reads, but it is possible this could be interpreted this way and recommends a side of caution and to not make any HRA increase effective until after the election since this is not clear. Council Member Kuether stated the Council is not operating in the same capacity as a member of the HRA, it is the same as when they are on the Economic Development Authority. It may be the same members, but it is a different board. Mr. Hawkins stated he could look at the statutes tonight but not give the Council an opinion tonight without looking at any attorney general's opinion that may have been decided on or any case law. Council Member Bergeson suggested Council could pass this Resolution subject to an opinion by Mr. Hawkins regarding its legality. Mayor Landers replied he would prefer an understanding from the attorney before voting on this resolution. Council Member Kuether moved to table Resolution No. 97 - 46 until the next City Council Meeting. Council Member Neal seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously. OLD BUSINESS Consideration of Reaffirming Mayor Landers Appointments and Reappointments of the Following Persons to the Friends of the Parks Foundation: Reappointments: Marty Asleson and Georgia Herrick Appointments: Barry Bernstein Mayor Landers explained that the Friends of the Parks Foundation wanted to interview Pat Huleman before his appointment is considered. He will bring Mr. Huleman's appointment back to the City Council after the interview. Mayor Landers read a letter that will be sent to those have been appointed this evening. Consideration of Appointing Alternate Human Rights Officers, Mayor Landers - Mayor Landers stated the City's Harassment Policy calls for the appointment of a Human Rights Officer and two alternates. In order that each of the City's buildings contain an individual to whom employees may go to with questions and concerns, or to report incidents of harassment to the following positions are suggested for the designation: Assistant to the City Administrator, Dan Tesch, Human Rights Officer, City Hall PAGE 12