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Consent   1.I.
Regular City Council Meeting
Meeting Date:
11/12/2019
TITLE
Approval of Appointment of Part-Time Judge
PRESENTED BY:
Sheila Kolar
Department:
Court
Presentation:
No

PROBLEM/ISSUE STATEMENT

The Municipal Court Judge, with the approval of the City Council, appoints the Part-Time Judge.  The Part-Time Judge will serve during the elected judge's term of office per City Code Sec. 10-202.

The interview committee would like to recommend Teague Westrope for appointment as Part-Time Judge.  Mr. Westrope meets the requirements for Part-Time Judge per City Code Sec. 10-203 and MCA 3-5-114.

The Part-Time Judge position was opened to the public on 09/23/2019.  The position was open for three weeks.  (3) individuals applied.  Of the three:  (1) Did not meet the qualifications, (1) Withdrew, and (1) Met the qualifications and was interviewed.

Interview Committees Supporting Rationale:
(1)  Meets all of the qualifications  (Member of MT State Bar, and has been admitted to practice law in Montana for at least 5 years prior to the date of appointment or election).
(2)  Knowledge of the Billings Municipal court due to his 13 years of prosecution service with the Billings Municipal Court.
(3) Excellent references from former co-workers, prosecutors, supervisors, and defense attorneys. 

 

 

ALTERNATIVES ANALYZED

City Council may:
  • Approve, or;
  • Disapprove

FINANCIAL IMPACT

Part-Time Judge position was approved FY20 Budget.

RECOMMENDATION

With, the approval of City Council, Judge Sheila Kolar would like to appoint Teague Westrope as the Part-Time Judge for Billings Municipal Court.

APPROVED BY CITY ADMINISTRATOR