Agenda Packets - 2002/02/25 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mounds View City Council January 28, 2002 Regular Meeting Page 12 Mr. Berk commented that the statement of the Mayor in the letter to the City Administrator claiming that, had he known the purchase was illegal, he would have withdrawn the offer to Park and Recreation and the savings would not have occurred. He then commented that, in light of the amount of money spent in attorney’s fees, there has been no savings to the City. He then asked why the taxpayers are paying to defend the Mayor’s personal business. Mayor Sonterre commented that, if the former finance director followed state statute, none of this would have happened. City Administrator Miller explained that the City Attorney was involved because the City received a request to investigate. She further explained that the City Attorney represents the City, not Mayor Sonterre or TSS. Mr. Berk stated that, if the Mayor had not been involved in this matter, the City Attorney would not have to defend the City. City Attorney Riggs commented that, had the City followed proper procedures in six or seven different incidents this would not have taken place and Council had asked that it be reviewed. Council Member Thomas asked if there had been a need for prosecution who would have been liable. City Attorney Riggs indicated that City Staff and Council would be responsible. Council Member Thomas commented that it is frustrating to think she could have been held liable for what happened because she currently sits on Council. She commented that there are approximately 17 other issues of a similar nature that the City is working to clear up. She then commented that it is frustrating to be blamed for something that Council did not know was wrong. Mr. Berk suggested that Council Member Thomas could resign if she did not like her job and did not want to listen to residents. Council Member Thomas indicated she would listen to Mr. Berk as long as he needed to speak. Council Member Marty indicated he had requested copies of the just and correct claims for June of 2000 for the exercise equipment. He commented that he looks at the claims and Council Member Stigney reviews the claims and, if the fitness equipment was on the just and correct claims, Council should have been aware of it and ultimately approved it by approving the Consent Agenda. He then commented he is still waiting for the requested information. City Administrator Miller indicated she had received a voice mail from Council Member Marty that she understood to be a data practices request. She then commented that, if it was not a data practices request, the information could be provided tomorrow.