The City Attorney acts as legal adviser to the City Council, and provides legal services and advice to the City Manager; the various City departments; and all City commissions, committees and boards. The City Attorney represents the City in litigation and directs the performance of legal services by outside counsel, and also oversees the civil and criminal prosecution of violations of City laws.
The City Attorney's office prepares and reviews resolutions and ordinances for City Council consideration, drafts and reviews contracts, issues opinions on a variety of municipal matters, including, for example, zoning, procurement, and personnel matters. The City Attorney is appointed by the City Council. The City Attorney's Office is not allowed to give advice about personal or private legal problems of citizens.
Legal services are provided through a contract with the law firm of Best Best and Krieger LLP.