Closed sessions and back room debates
Scoop recently received a voicemail from angry resident.
In addition to the sundry things this gentleman was disgruntled about, he wondered what on earth city council could be doing in all those closed sessions? Shouldn't they be doing business in public?
Yes, Mr. Madcaller, they should do most business in public session, per order of the state open meeting law. But they've also go plenty of things to discuss behind closed doors.
In the last three meetings, council has used closed sessions to talk about pending lawsuits, personnel problems, and real estate issues.
This council has asked for more information about the city's legal troubles -- particularly in regards to issues around the police department. And new city attorney Terry Wood has delivered, with regular updates on any and all revolving legal issues (including stuff like the man who sued the city after he got a truck stuck under a train bridge.)
That might be why said caller noticed all those closed session: council has been having a ton of them since Wood took over the top legal position in the city.
Litigation and personnel issues clearly fall within the confines of confidential conversations the council is allowed to have. But if council or the city makes some kind of deal -- be it a legal settlement or arbitration agreement -- that will be a matter of public record (again, per the public record law).
As for the real estate stuff, council has met behind closed doors to talk about potential property acquisitions around the Coliseum. Again, if the city makes a deal to buy something, that must be public upon return to closed session. But they can negotiate behind closed doors if they like.
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