CCWS 04-21-2003 - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORKSESSION APRIL 21, 2003 2 ~---- . Ms. Carlson said if it were up to her, it would not. She said the library board had worked hard to keep the costs low, therefore hoping the Ramsey County Board would be supportive of this project. Mayor Aplikowski reported that she had received a fair number of calls from people who wanted to see the Arden Hills branch stay open. Ms. Carlson stated the budget and proposal was uncertain at this time, explaining the library board was clearly at the mercy of the State budgetary situation and the levy limits set forth, as well. 2.B Open Meeting Law Mr. Filla reviewed the State of Minnesota Open Meeting Law. He noted that if any Councilmembers attempted to "get around" the open meeting law by meeting as a quorum of 3 or more members, by physical meeting and/or e-mailing, and voice mail, that they were af risk of violation. He suggested that the Supreme Court has become rather narrow in its judgments. . Councilmember Rem asked if there was a violation if she attended an Arden Hills public meeting and was a part of the audience. Mr. Filla said the deciding factor for violation is whether or not the quorum is receiving Arden Hills information at a meeting. He nofed the fine is rather minimal at $300, but legal fees could be in excess of$13,000. He said the bigger problem is voice mail and e-mails between the Councilmembers. Councilmember Grant asked if a "third-person" conversation, e.g. a staff member relaying informafion to other Councilmembers, could be considered a violation of the open meeting law. Mr. Filla said his conservative answer was, "yes". He reminded the council that the public perception may be an additional concern. Councilmember Larson asked if there was a risk of violation if more than three members attended a political caucus or other public meeting. . The Council discussed amended agenda's and the deadlines for submitting agenda items to staff.