City looks into applications from prospective attorneys

By Steve Enders

Saratoga has received a list of 14 candidates to replace City Attorney Mike Riback, and is set to begin screening the applications.

Most of the work to be done in coming weeks by the City Council will take place in closed session meetings. Ironically, the council had to turn to Riback for advice on those deliberations, that will likely result in his replacement.

The city attorney advised councilmembers March 17 that it could legally proceed with meetings closed to the public because they constitute a personnel issue.

At its March 9 meeting, the council discussed the qualities it would look for in a new attorney. Councilmembers said they'd like a full-service local firm or individual with familiarity and experience with municipal governments and expertise in con- tract, employment and environmental law.

Additionally, they said they'd look for someone with zoning, land use and planning experience--a firm that will be able to handle the issues of a municipality.

"We want someone who's cost-effective," Vice Mayor Stan Bogosian said. "Someone who wants to work through and resolve conflict, rather than litigate it. We're not looking for a hotshot who can do a lot of trial work."

Over the coming weeks, the council will review the candidates' profiles and application packets which, according to City Manager Larry Perlin, range from a single sheet of paper to an entire box of information. Eventually, councilmembers will narrow the list to a few semi-finalists, and will conduct interviews before choosing a new attorney.

Photo: Former Japanese Prime Minister Mohiro Hosokawa

Joe Trio appears at Prentiss Brown Auditorium

Saratoga Sampler: The Green Lantern; library contributions; Fruit House exhibit

Sports Briefs

Warriors win two baseball games in a row

Falcons win three tennis matches