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Marquette County board adds closed session under MCL 15.2681(e) to discuss pending litigation
Summary
The Marquette County Board of Commissioners amended its agenda on April 24 to add a closed session under MCL 15.2681(e) after civil counsel said a letter about pending litigation required confidential attorney consultation; the amendment was approved by roll call.
The Marquette County Board of Commissioners voted April 24 to amend its agenda to add a closed session under MCL 15.2681(e) to consult with counsel about a letter the county received concerning pending litigation. Civil counsel Alex told the board the statute permits consultation when an open meeting would have a detrimental effect on the public body's litigation or settlement position.
A motion to add the closed session was made by Commissioner Malone and supported by Commissioner Alholm; the board approved the amended agenda by roll call. The clerk recorded affirmative votes and two commissioners were noted absent or excused during roll call. The chair directed staff to clear the gallery before the closed session and reconvene the meeting afterward.
Why it matters: The statute cited — MCL 15.2681(e) — authorizes a public body to meet in closed session to consult with its attorney on trial or settlement strategy when public discussion could harm the public body's position. The board did not disclose details of the letter or the litigation in open session.
