As Council is aware, at the July 25, 2017 City Council Work Session, City Council directed staff to begin the request for proposal (RFP) process for prosecution legal services for the City.
 
On October 6th, 2017 the RFP was announced, with proposals due on November 1st, 2017. The city received proposals from five firms. The current firm providing prosecution services to the City did not re-submit an RFP. The five firms were evaluated on their professionalism, timeliness of application submission, cost for service, accessibility, technology, and training. Two of those firms were selected as finalists, and interviewed on November 14th, 2017. The interview panel consisted of City Administrator Kurt Ulrich, Police Chief Jeff Katers, Fire Chief Matt Kohner, Police Captain Tim Frankfurth, Police Captain Brad Bluml, and Police Investigator Ben Rossum.
 
On November 28th, 2017 a final decision was announced to both finalists, advising Eckberg Lammers they were selected to move to the next step of contract negotiations and then consideration by City Council.  The proposed contract with Eckberg Lammers has been reviewed by the City Civil Attorney and is attached for Council review and formal approval. The contract is for a four year term and shall be renewable at the City's option for an additional term or term(s). As stated in the contract 2.10, this Agreement may be terminated by the City at any time or by the Criminal Prosecution Attorney upon 60 days written notice.

Staff is recommending Council formally enter into a contract with the law firm of Eckberg Lammers to provide the criminal prosecution legal services and related services.