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~~ <br />-6- <br />Mr. Byrnes explained that the $20 increase to $55/hour was for cases <br />handled in courts other than municipal court. <br />Mr. Bennett asked if Mr. Byrnes is presently working as Law Director <br />since the resolution passed at the January 3rd meeting states up to <br />January 17th? <br />Mr. Flynn asked what is the prevailing rate? <br />Mr. Byrnes answered that which is enacted, previous ordinance expired <br />December 31, 1976. <br />Mr. Relic once again stated as in the January 3rd meeting, that he has <br />no authority to pay the Law Director without an ordinance and do we <br />expect him to work with no provisions to pay. <br />Mr. Bennett suggested we hold off passage until the February meeting <br />at which time we may have a full Council. <br />Mr. Schulte asked Mr. Byrnes his opinion. <br />Mr. Byrnes commented that the matter of fees was discussed with partners <br />in the law firm and it was agreed that the amounts stated in the ordinance <br />are thos that they can best operate at, at this time. <br />Mayor Beebe wished to express his feelings to Council (see attached). <br />He also said that he has checked with several other law firms and <br />most wouldn't touch litigation for less than $75/hour. <br />Mr. Grogan stated he too had taken a survey from 10 other cities with <br />rates ranging from $30-$40/hour. <br />Mr. Busa said we have paid out $50,000 last year for legal services <br />and it can go up to $80,000 - he was in favor of a raise but not 57y. <br />Mr. Flynn asked Mr. Byrnes what rate he thinks he should be paid? <br />Mr. Byrnes replied that the rate listed in Ordinance 77-4. <br />At this time, Mr. Flynn, seconded by Mr. Schulte, made a.motion to re- <br />tain Mr. Byrnes and his Law Firm until February 21 or until a successor <br />is appointed at the prevailing rate of $55/hour for litigation and at <br />a semi-monthly rate of $337.50. <br />Roll Call: AYES: Messrs., Flynn, Grogan and Schulte <br />NAYS: Messrs., Bennett and Busa <br />Motion Carried <br />Mr. Byrnes retained <br />Mr. Byrnes stated that a disbursement of funds must have a resolu- <br />tion otherwise the Finance Director has no authority to pay. <br />