pages: CityCouncil/2010-09-21.pdf, 17
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CityCouncil | 2010-09-21 | 17 | Councilmember Tam stated a reporter posed a question to the City Attorney regarding how much has been spent on the investigation; the article quoted the City Attorney as saying "that is privileged information and not available to the public.' The City Attorney stated that she has never had a conversation with anyone in the press regarding the matter; she has not read the referenced article but would be very interested in reading it; no one in the community has asked her how much has been spent [on the investigation] and she cannot imagine being quoted when she has never had such a conversation. Councilmember Tam inquired whether the City Attorney had a conversation with Ms. Ellson, to which the City Attorney responded in the negative. Councilmember Matarrese stated having a Brown Act educational workshop would be a good idea; an accounting of money spent on the investigation should be requested; moved approval of directing the City Attorney to 1) come back with an educational workshop proposal for the public, interested Councilmembers, Boards and Commissions; 2) provide an accounting of the legal, hardware, and software costs expended on the investigation of Councilmember Tam. Councilmember Gilmore requested that the motion include accounting of staff time. Mayor Johnson suggested that the motion include accounting to the extent possible. Vice Mayor deHaan stated some people have the understanding that Council has control over the issue [of terminating contracts]; inquired whether the City Attorney has sought other interpretations and is comfortable that the Charter's intent is not to give Council the authority or power to terminate contracts. The City Attorney responded in the affirmative; stated giving the City Manager power, authority, and duty to investigate a Councilmember wrong doing while allowing Council or an individual Councilmember to withdraw funding and resources would be anomalous; the situation is akin to the Watergate investigation and firing of Archibald Cox. Vice Mayor deHaan stated the issue is one of checks and balances. Councilmember Matarrese stated his motion purposefully leaves that off [contract termination]; this is a request for information. Councilmember Gilmore stated the City Attorney has made it clear that Council cannot terminate the Contract; requested an accounting [of Mr. Colantuono's services] and follow up accounting until the matter is concluded. Vice Mayor deHaan seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 17 September 21, 2010 | CityCouncil/2010-09-21.pdf |