AGENDA CAPTION:
Title
Consider approval of Resolution 2016-36R approving the appointment of the law firm of Davidson, Troilo, Ream & Garza as special counsel to advise the Ethics Review Commission as it considers a request from Council Member Scott Gregson for an Ethics Advisory Opinion; and declaring an effective date.
Body
Meeting date: March 15, 2016
Department: City Attorney’s Office
Funds Required:
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Funds Available:
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CITY COUNCIL GOAL: N/A
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ELEMENT(s): N/A
BACKGROUND:
In accordance with Article 5. Code of Ethics, Section 2.445. Special counsel. An independent outside attorney approved by the city council, who does not otherwise represent the city, shall be retained to serve as special counsel to the ethics review commission in the following situations:
(1) When a complaint is filed alleging that the mayor or a member of the city council, or the city manager, city attorney, city clerk, or municipal court judge violated this article or a state conflict of interest law.
(2) When an advisory opinion is requested under section 2.443 (d) by the mayor or a member of the city council, or by the city manager, city attorney, city clerk or municipal court judge.
On March 4, 2016, Council Member Scott Gregson submitted the attached request for an advisory opinion. Staff recommends that Council approve the selection of Mr. Frank Garza, with the law firm of Davidson & Troilo of San Antonio, Texas to advise the Ethics Review Commission regarding this matter at a rate not to exceed $210 per hour for professional services.