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4� ��--� , : � 1 � �. Memo To: Mayor and City Council From: Chris Miller, Interim City Manager � Date: September 18,2006 � Re: Update on Obtaining an Outside Legal Opinion on Twin Lakes Matters Date: 9118/06 Item: 4. Outside Legal Opinion Twin Lakes Introduction At the 8128106 City Council meeting, the Council directed Staff to contact law firms with la�d- use litigation experience to inquire whether they would be interested in advising the City on the various development actions, risks, liabilities, and potential costs related to the recent Twin Lakes Ruling by the Minnesota Court of Appeals. In a letter dated August 30, 2006 (copy attached), Staff inquired with four different law firms to determine; 1) whether the firm was interested in providing assistance, 2) the approach they would take in providing such advice, and 3) the approximate costs associated with providing such advice. We received a response from each of the firms. Three of the four have indicated some interest in providing assistance to the City on this matter. Copies of the responses are attached. Discussion Points In the event the Council chooses to take the action of obtaining an outside legal opinion, it is recommended that the Council create specific q�estion(s) to be addressed, rather than leaving the request open-ended. During phone conversations with the three firms that have expressed interest, both were uncertain as to what the Council was asking them to opine on. The City has not provided for this type of legal representation in the 2006 budget, nor will it be covered under the City's insurance policy with the League of MN Cities. Funding will need to be provided by cash reserves.