Council directs staff to narrow utility consulting scope after debate over hiring former employee

Councilmembers debated a proposed consulting agreement with a former employee identified in the discussion as Josh, weighing the vendor’s intimate institutional knowledge against concerns about professionalism and procurement.

Wayne D'Cesars urged the council to approve the work but not to sign a contract directly with Josh: "He's a divisive individual... I would not do this with Josh," he said, suggesting the city solicit proposals from larger firms. Other council members defended Josh’s deep knowledge of the system and staff said a limited call-and-consult scope might be warranted for troubleshooting.

Finley (city manager) told council staff had discussed a narrow call-and-consult option—an as-needed troubleshooting arrangement billed at an hourly rate—and that staff support favored a limited scope: "Prior to my discussion with staff... I was the person that asked mister Becker if he would consider a call and consult agreement..." Finley said, noting a menu of options and a proposed trial period.

Councilmember motioned to direct staff to return with a more narrowly defined scope for a consultation agreement and to reach out to other consulting firms for comparative proposals; the motion carried on a voice vote.

Next steps: staff will prepare a narrowed scope of work (call-and-consult troubleshooting focus), solicit additional proposals and return to council for consideration.