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Regular City Council Meeting Monday, March 03, 2008 Page 13 Councilmember Ihlan respectfully disagreed, opining that discussions such be ini- tiated, referencing the second option outlined in Councilmember Kough's letter of February 11, 2008. Mayor Klausing expressed confusion with Councilmember Ihlan's preference to initiate discussions, based on her desire at the last Council meeting to include this item on tonight's agenda, based on Councilmember Kough's ability to participate in the discussions. Councilmember Ihlan clarified that it was Councilmember Roe who had requested that Councilmember Kough be included in discussions of this issue. Council- member Roe opined that he was amenable to initial discussions tonight, provided the Council remain respectful of Councilmember Kough's continued service on the City Council and to ensure he's included on any potential vote. Councilmember Ihlan referenced an article in the March 3, 2008 edition of the Pioneer Press on Councilmember Kough's health and position on the City Coun- cil; and his expressed desire that the City Council take up the question on how to fill his seat if he was unable to fulfill his term. Councilmember Ihlan opined that the Council could honor Councilmember Kough for his service by honoring his request to appoint his predecessor, keeping the appointment process pertinent and urgent in case he were required to step down. Councilmember Ihlan noted that Mr. Kough suggested in his letter the option to amend the City Code, or seta pol- icy to appoint the candidate that received the most votes in the last preceding gen- eral City election out of those not elected to the City Council; and opined that this was a reasonable request. Councilmember Ihlan advocated that the City Council make a commitment to follow that proposal to avoid politicizing the decision or show disrespect to Councilmember Kough or his legacy. Mayor Klausing noted that the proposal would provide for appointment of Karen Schaffer, next highest vote-receiver in the preceding election, and noted that any process would be open to the public. Mayor Klausing noted that this was a factor he considered upon his appointment of Ms. Ihlan to the Council vacancy created when he was elected Mayor; and was now a legitimate consideration. However, Mayor Klausing noted that applications were also sought, and public comment heard as well, and he couldn't guarantee in advance to appoint a particular person. Councilmember Pust noted that Councilmember Kough's letter had included two suggestions; and opined that it would be helpful to have him participate in the dis- cussion, since both suggestions were opposed to each other, and she questioned whether he was equally passionate about both options. Councilmember Pust ad- vised that, since Councilmember Kough was unable to be here for the discussion, she would seek him out privately, if not possible publicly, to clarify his intent.