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City attorney flags litigation and council approves release of closed‑session minutes; police seek consensus to replace key‑card server
Summary
City Attorney Roger said a pending case is in discovery and recommended closed‑session discussion; council later approved releasing closed‑session minutes and destroying tapes. Police Chief VanKlaverren reported a failed key‑card server with a $10,285 Tri‑City quote and asked for consensus to begin work while formal spending is reserved for the next meeting.
City Attorney Roger told the Silvis City Council on Oct. 1 that the city is involved in an active litigation matter now in paper discovery and that details should be considered in closed session.
"There is a litigation account and indeed there is that the city is involved in...This case is in the paper discovery phase," Roger said, offering to provide a written report or to discuss the matter one‑on‑one. Roger stated that more detailed discussion would require closed session.
Council moved into executive session later in the meeting to discuss closed‑session minutes and related matters. After returning to open session, Alderman Tony Trulson moved — and Alderman Rick Lohse seconded — a motion to approve the closed‑session meeting minutes, release them and destroy the tapes; the motion carried on a 6–0 roll‑call vote.
In staff reports, City Clerk Amy Malmstrom announced early voting at City Hall from Oct. 21–25 and Oct. 28–Nov. 1, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., and said she will attend annual municipal training Oct. 6–11.
Police Chief VanKlaverren reported a server failure for the department's key‑card system and presented a Tri‑City quote of $10,285 (taxes not included). He asked the council for consensus to begin planning and procurement work immediately but reiterated no funds would be spent until formal approval at the next council meeting. "The quote is $10,285 not including taxes," Chief VanKlaverren said. Council gave consensus to move the work forward administratively while reserving formal authorization for the next meeting.
Chief Winters of the fire department announced that firefighter Kate Kepler received basic firefighter and hazmat certifications, and Public Works congratulated Garrett on passing water‑operations certification. Chief VanKlaverren also said he intends to make a formal offer for a Civilian Service Officer to Sam Martiez.
The meeting record shows the council approved release and destruction of closed‑session minutes; litigation details discussed in executive session were not disclosed in open session.
