Commentary; Posted: 9/13/06
Why now for FL review of professional services?
By Cliff Buchan
We in no way question a process by the city of Forest Lake to review the professional service firms that the city needs to carry on its business. It is no doubt wise to do so from time to time not only to see if the city is getting proper value for its expenditures but also the proper service that its citizens deserve.
But it leaves us somewhat curious as to why City Administrator Chip Robinson has been directed by council in late summer to begin a process of seeking proposals for legal services. (A move to do likewise for city financial consultants was put on hold for now.)
By late this month, Robinson is expected to report back to the city council. Proposals from legal firms could be presented to the city council soon.
The city is currently utilizing the local law firm of Hebert and Welch. Itís a relationship to a local business that dates back well over 30 years. David Hebert is serving as city attorney while Michael Welch handles city prosecutions.
There may be cause to quibble over some aspects of how the firm has performed. But by and large, from our perspective, the Hebert and Welch firm has served the city well and capably.
There is nothing wrong with letting the firmís abilities stand up against other firms in a fair contest of proposals for service.
But we do question the timing. Why now, in the final one-third of the year, is the city moving ahead with a study that could result in a major change. From our point of view, if such a process is to be done, it should happen at the start of the year, not the tail end.
With the mayor and three seats on the city council up for election on Nov. 7, it is very likely some new faces will hold down leadership spots come January. Any change in professional services is a decision that the new city council should be making.
If the idea is to do the legwork now and have the data available for the new council next year, that is fine and a good planning tool. But making a decision now is not good planning and could put a new council in the awkward position of being forced to deal with the 11th hour moves by a lame duck council.
We would hope that the current city council does the right thing and lays this decision off to the new year and the city council that takes office in 2007.
Forest Lake Times
P.O. Box 218
880 SW 15 St.
Forest Lake, MN 55025
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