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Councilmember Rader noted that he normally likes to reserve executive session for matters that require the utmost privacy, and he considers this an appropriate use. He noted that each candidate deserves to have their privacy respected. President O'Malley added that some elements of this discussion can and should take place in public. Motion by President O'Malley, seconded by Vice President Litten to enter executive session for the purpose of appointing a public official. A roll call vote was conducted as follows: Yeas: Bullock, Kepple, Litten, O'Malley, Rader, Shachner Nays: none Motion passed. President O'Malley invited Council staff and the Law Director into executive session. Committee of the Whole entered executive session at 6:15 p.m. At 6:45 p.m. a motion was made by President O'Malley, seconded by Vice President Litten to exit executive session. A roll call vote was conducted as follows: Yeas: Bullock, Kepple, Litten, O'Malley, Rader, Shachner Nays: none Motion passed. Committee of the Whole exited executive session. President O'Malley remarked that all the applicants for the position are extraordinarily qualified and would bring a lot to City Council. He noted that two of the four applicants were candidates in the most recent election. Kyle Baker was the highest voter-getter among the applicants and the 41 vote-getter in Ward 1, among all candidates in the election. President O'Malley explained that he saw this as the voters clearly expressing their preference for Mr. Baker. President O'Malley remarked that he had kept an open mind through the interviews and that he could have been swayed by a compelling reason to support another candidate. Ultimately, he concluded, that no such reason presented itself. He remarked on Mr. Baker's qualifications, skills, and engagement, that make him eminently qualified to serve. He referenced dozens of emails and messages that he received in support of Kyle from Ward 1 residents after the election. He acknowledged that appointing Mr. Baker would not add to the diversity of the body. To address this in the future, he discussed his strategy to appoint diverse individuals to the city's boards and commissions in hopes that this will translate into more of them eventually stepping up to run for office. He stated that in addition to Mr. Baker's strengths, skills, and experience— the most impressive qualification id that he received the endorsement of the voters of Ward 1. President O'Malley remarked on the strengths and qualifications of the other interviewees and encouraged them to stay involved. 2