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Regular City Council Meeting Monday, October 20, 2008 Page 11 Councilmember Roe also requested information, if the apparent lowest bidders did not fall into the panel's top three ranking, discussion or rational as to why they didn't make it, and knowledge of that differential. Councilmember Ihlan, for future discussion, opined that if incumbent firms were reappointed, input from the public, staff and individual Councilmembers be con- sidered, similar to a new applicant's job performance satisfaction rate, and similar to discussions held in 2005 as part of this process. Mayor Klausing suggested that future discussion consider whether or not to hold a public hearing prior to appointment and/or reappointment. Mayor Klausing opined that public input was not part of the attorney hiring process. Councilmember Pust suggested that, at some point, contracts with the chosen firms be restructured; and that they provide for financial incentives for the appli- cant and the City for the duration of those contracts; and that they be based on performance tools established in the contract to make financial incentives eco- nomically viable for the firm, as well as providing the City with the most cost- effective and beneficial terms for legal services. Councilmember Pust offered to meet with City Manager Malinen to discuss contract terms. Further discussion included structuring of retainers; and terms of existing con- tracts with ability for extension if necessary. 12. Consider 2009 Staff Insurance Benefits Renewals and City Contributions Human Resources Director Eldona Bacon summarized the Request for Council Action dated October 20, 2008 for consideration of 2009 City Benefits Insurance Renewals and Cafeteria Contributions, and detailed analysis. Discussion included impacts to employees and increased costs for employees and the City; single and family options and out-of-pocket costs; number insured, in- cluding employees, dependents, and retirees; and opt-out options and payments and advantages to the City. Roe moved, Ihlan seconded, approval of the 2009 employee insurance programs and fund allocation as detailed in the Request for Council Action dated October 20, 2008, with respective contracts, pending review and approval by the City At- torney. Councilmember Roe observed that many private sector employers did not allow employees much input as to their benefits; and expressed appreciation to City staff for their interest and involvement in annually reviewing and improving cov- erage options, without only looking to their self interests.