Minutes

LOS ANGELES CITY ATTORNEYS ASSOCIATION
BOARD MEETING MINUTES

Meeting Date:   November 20, 2008

Board Members Present: Shelley Smith (President), Michael Duran (Vice-President), Matt St. George (Vice-President), Jule Bishop (Treasurer), Judith Reel (Secretary), Nick Karno (Criminal Director), Rebecca Gardner (Criminal Director), Eugene Hall (Criminal Director)

SEIU Local 721 Representative Present:  Bob Hunt (General Counsel)

I. Old Business

A. LACAA Endorsement Procedures
The Board discussed procedures to adopt for candidate endorsement for the 2009 City Attorney election. There was considerable discussion about the merits of an Association endorsement of a candidate for City Attorney. The Board members recognized and discussed the desire expressed by some non-Board members not to endorse, but unanimously favors Association endorsement. Board members expressed the belief that it benefits the membership to have the Association play a meaningful role in the election, and that endorsement of a candidate is the best way to accomplish that.
The Board voted unanimously to mail a ballot to members, asking whether they want the Association to endorse a candidate for City Attorney. If the membership wants the Association to make an endorsement, the Board will schedule a candidates’ forum and arrange for a vote as to whom to endorse; if the membership does not want the Association to endorse a candidate, the Board will schedule a candidates’ forum for the sole purpose of allowing candidates to speak to issues addressing the office.

II. New Business

A. Board Elections
The Board authorized sending a notice to all members concerning the nomination and election process for Los Angeles City Attorneys’ Association Board positions. The Board seats currently up for reelection are First Vice-President (currently held by Matt St. George), Treasurer (currently held by Jule Bishop), Civil Director (currently held by Phil Sugar), Criminal Director (currently held by Nick Karno), and Criminal Director (currently held by Eugene Hall).

B. Memorial Contribution
The Board voted unanimously to contribute $250 in the memory of Deputy City Attorney Richard Bobb. The contribution will be made to a non-profit organization selected by Richard’s family.

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As you know, our new MOU includes annual reimbursement for MCLE-related expenses. To ensure that you receive complete and timely reimbursement, we encourage you to follow the instructions contained in the MCLE protocol provided by City Attorney Management. You must complete and submit a reimbursement form in order to receive reimbursement.

You can reimburse expenses related to attending MCLE programs that are accepted by the California State Bar, even if the program takes place in another state. Eligible expenses include the cost of the program, travel, and per diems.

Please be judicious when choosing lodging and which food/drink expenses you submit for reimbursement.

The Board is pleased to announce that LACAA has retained the law firm of MASTAGNI, HOLSTEDT, AMICK, MILLER & JOHNSEN as General Counsel.