Minutes - 1999/04/26 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Ms. Olson asked if citizens can have information that they would like for review so they maybe able to provide input at the next work session. City Administrator Whiting stated he can try to • follow up and provide information but reminded the Council and residents that there is a high degree of sub~ectivrty m this kmd of choice. Ms. Olson stated she will put her questions and requests for information in written form and asked if it would be reasonable to obtain that information. Mayor Coughlin stated all citizens have the right to ask reasonable questions of the City and, in a reasonable amount of time, obtain answers. Ms. Olson stated that her questions would be of a legal nature. She stated it was mentioned Ms. Schmidt's expertise could potentially help reduce the City's legal fees but she questioned whether rendering an opinion construed as legal would require insurance to cover liability of such actions. City Attorney Long stated he has not had an opportunity to talk with City Administrator Whiting but a City staff member could prepare initial drafts of resolutions and development agreements as long as they are reviewed by the City Attorney's office, which appears to be what staff is suggesting. If it meets those tests, it would not be construed as practicing law. City Administrator Whiting stated he sees the potential that staff members can do some of that draft work and noted that some of the largest expenses of the City are legal costs. He explained . they are looking at a position that crosses departmental boundaries, oversees the administration department, and helps coordinate the information that needs to be coordinated for the City. He stated this is what he had in mind, not doing legal work in place of the City Attorney. Ms. Olson stated that it appears this type of work would not cross the line of practicing law and would not result in a legal liability. Mr. David Jahnke stated that every place you work, you get merits but you don't get paid for the permits before you get them. He stated if this salary is at $60,000 it is not far behind the City Administrator's salary and he questions the need for a City Administrator. He asked if, in reality, there will be two managers for the City of Mounds View. Ayes - 4. Nays-1 (Quick). Motion carried. E. Consideration of Antenna Proposal Director of Public Works Ulrich advised that staff has received a request from Johnson Radio Communication Company, Inc. to install a repeater antenna on the City's water tower. While this is an opportunity to generate additional income for future tower maintenance needs, staff is unsure of the appropriate rental rate for this use. He advised that staff has contacted several cities with similar installations to inquire their rental rate. Johnson Radio is proposing an amount • 15N:\DATA\USERS\JOANB\SHARE\MINUTES\CC\1999\04-26-99.WPD