Basic services for this proposal include those legal services generally understood within the field of municipal law to fall within the category of “general counsel” work, and shall include but not be limited to the following: Attend Regular City Council meetings as well as Council Worksessions and other Commission and Committee meetings as requested by the City Council or City Administrator. Regular City Council meetings are ordinarily held the first and third Monday of each month. Council Work Sessions are held the second and fourth Monday of each month. Draft ordinances, resolutions and correspondence as requested. Review these documents when they are prepared by City Staff and provide edits as needed. Prepare official documents related to development including but not limited to TIF agreements, development agreements, and planned unit development agreements. Participate in development review staff meetings which occur once each month at City Hall. Review Council and Planning Commission agenda materials and minutes as requested and provide technical support with drafting “conditions of approval” for planning items. Prepare and/or review municipal contracts including but not limited to those for public improvements, joint powers agreements, professional service agreements, purchases or other purposes as requested. Participate in meetings and discussions with City Administrator, staff and other individuals as requested to provide legal analysis, options, and risk assessment for specific subject matter. Assist staff in processing licensing violations, administrative fines and suspensions, including implementation of administrative review procedures. Attend monthly interdepartmental “Problem Property Team” meetings if requested. Defend the City if administrative citations are appealed. Represent the City in the acquisition and disposition of property and easements. Assist with encroachment agreements, right-of-way vacations, and special assessments. Conduct occasional law updates for City Council, commissions, and staff as necessary regarding new or proposed legislation affecting municipal operations and activities. Represent the City in condemnation proceedings for public improvement projects. Advise and assist staff as requested in the development of Requests for Proposal and formal bid documents. Represent the City in matters related to the enforcement of City building, property maintenance, zoning and fire codes. Represent the City with state and federal regulatory agencies. Research and submit legal opinions on legal matters requested by City Council or City Administrator. Defend the City in litigation except in those cases where insurance companies are required to exclusively provide defense. Work cooperatively with insurance companies as needed on litigation cases. Partner with the City on public employment matters. Provide, on a periodic basis, written updates on State or Federal legislation or judicial holding impacting the City and suggested action or changes in operations or procedures to assure compliance. Research and introduce special legislation or initiatives involving City matters. Provide interpretation and advice with respect to MN Government Data Practices Act and its application. Respond to City Staff’s day-to-day inquiries in a timely manner.
