PUBLIC LAW SECTION
ANNUAL MEETING
MAY 16, 2008

REPORT OF THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE

The Nominating Committee recommends that the following individuals be elected to the
Public Law Section’s Executive Council

Co-Chairs (1-year term):
Barry R. Greller – Assistant Attorney General, Minnesota Attorney General’s Office
Mary Miller – Compensation Attorney Principal, Minnesota Dept. of Labor and Industry

Secretary (1-year term):
Jim Alexander – Assistant U.S. Attorney, U.S. Attorney’s Office

Treasurer (1-year term):
Kim Buechel Mesun – Assistant District General Counsel, Minneapolis School District

Executive Council (2-year term):
Dana Banwer – Deputy City Attorney, Minneapolis City Attorney’s Office
John Choi – St. Paul City Attorney
Todd Schoffelman – Assistant County Attorney, Sherburne County Attorney’s Office
Inta Sellars – Assistant Chief Human Services Judge, Minnesota Dept. of Human Services

Nominations from the floor are also allowed.

Not on the ballot:
Council Members returning for second year of their 2-year term:
Diane Alshouse, District Court Judge, Second Judicial District
Greg Brooker, Chief Deputy, Civil Division, U.S. Attorney’s Office
Tom Kalitowski, Judge, Minnesota Court Appeals
Nancy McLean, Assistant County Attorney, Hennepin County Attorney’s Office

Respectfully submitted,

2008 Nominating Committee
Kim Buechel Mesun
Tom Kalitowski

The slate of Nominees of the Nominating Committee was elected by the Section. 
The Annual Meeting was adjourned. 

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MINUTES
PUBLIC LAW SECTION
EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING

April 8, 2008
Minnesota Attorney General’s Office

MEMBERS PRESENT: Kim Buechel Mesun, Tom Kalitowski, John Choi, Todd Schoffelman, Mary Miller, Barry Greller, Jim Alexander, Greg Brooker, Dana Banwer, Louis Thayer, Nancy McLean.

MEMBERS EXCUSED: Diane Alshouse

COMMITTEE CHAIRS PRESENT: Eileen Wells by teleconference.

MSBA LIAISON: Kim Basting

Co-Chair Louis Thayer called the meeting to order.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:  The minutes of the March 11, 2008 meeting of the Public Law Section Council were reviewed and approved. 

The Awards Committee, Jim Alexander and John Choi, presented the list of those who were nominated for Public Law Section Annual Awards.  The Council decided upon the following by motion, second and approval:
Douglas Amdahl Career Achievement – Lane Ayers, Jeanne Schleh, and Allen Oleisky.
Rosalie E. Wahl Judicial Excellence – Chief Justice Russell A. Anderson.
Julius Gernes Prosecutor of Excellence – Jeff Edblad.
William McGee Public Defender of Excellence – F. Richard Gallo Jr.
Public Attorney of Excellence: Government Agency – Virginia Rae Bly.
Public Attorney of Excellence: Public Law Office – Jay M. Heffern.
Pro Bono Attorney of Excellence: Kathie Battle Sayles.

CO-CHAIRS’ REPORT:
Louis reported that preparations for the MSBA Convention in Duluth are on track.  Todd Schoffelman has lined up the speakers for the CLE. 

Proposed Data Practices Legislation – Barry Greller reported that the vote on the proposed legislation in follow up to the meeting tallied at 4 ayes and 3 abstentions.  He communicated the Council’s support to Laurie Beyer-Kropuenske and Louis communicated it to the MSBA. 

The law student liaisons, Michael Goodwin and Ellen Anderson, are invited to the Council starting with the May meeting. 

By Law revisions – The officers received a letter from the MSBA requesting that the Sections review their By Laws for certain enumerated potential updating.  Mary Miller will do the By Laws review.

Race for Justice – Mary reported those who volunteered to participate were Jim Alexander, Louis Thayer, Joel Fisher, Greg Brooker and her.  The event is April 13, 2008 at Nicollet Island.  The Loan Repayment Assistance Program is benefited, including the $500 Section support.  Pictures will be taken for the newsletter.

TREASURER’S REPORT –No report.

COMMITTEE REPORTS
Awards – Above
Community and Public Service – Nancy McLean reported on the MSBA Convention project, the clothing and diaper drive for infant to 4 year olds.  The clothing can be new or gently used.  The items will go to the Bethany Crisis Shelter and the Teen Parent Program.  Members are encouraged to ask public law offices for donations. 
May 22 will be the Brush with Kindness Habitat event. 
Pro Bono - The Loaves & Fishes Legal Advice Clinic will need 3 to 5 people willing to commit to monthly preparing food or providing legal advice for a full year.  Training will be provided by VLN and it will start in July.  The other projects are also underway.  This task force anticipates sun setting in September. 
Data Practices – Above
Local Government – Eileen Wells reported that the MSBA Sesquicentennial Committee is putting together a play to present legal characters in history.  There will be several performances with full costuming.  She is taking names of persons interested. 
Membership – No report.
Newsletter – Kim reported the Spring issue is anticipated to be out the first week in May.
CLE- Mary distributed a written report on the May 16 First Amendment CLE and the June 16 Convention Data Practices CLE.  It also included the three that the Section is  publicizing. 
Nominations Committee – Kim Mesun noted that the Committee’s slate of nominees for next year was distributed by email March 27, 2008.  Returning will be Diane Alshouse, Greg Brooker, Tom Kalitowski and Nancy McLean.  Nominated for two year terms will be Dana Banwer, John Choi, Todd Schoffelman, and Inta Sellar.  Nominated for officers will be Barry Greller and Mary Miller, Co-Chairs; Jim Alexander, Secretary; and Kim Buechel Mesun, Treasurer.  Motion was made, seconded, and passed for the slate of nominees.  Kim and Tom were thanked for their work.  

The meeting was adjourned at 1:35 p.m.

Next Meetings:
May 16, 2008 – Annual Meeting, CLE and Awards, Midland Hills Country Club
June 10, 2008  - Minneapolis City Attorney’s Office – Dana Banwer
July 8, 2008 – No meeting scheduled at this time
August 12, 2008 – Minnesota Court of Appeals – Judge Tom Kalitowski

Respectfully submitted,
Mary Miller
Secretary, Public Law Section  

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MINUTES
PUBLIC LAW SECTION
EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING

March 11, 2008
Hennepin County Attorney’s Office

MEMBERS PRESENT: Barry Greller, Jim Alexander, Mary Miller, Dana Banwer, Tom Kalitowski, Nancy McLean, Louis Thayer

MEMBERS EXCUSED: Greg Brooker, Diane Alshouse, Todd Schoffelman, John Choi

COMMITTEE CHAIRS PRESENT:  Margaret Westin
MSBA LIAISON: Kim Basting
GUEST: Laurie Beyer-Kropuenske

Co-Chair Barry Greller called the meeting to order.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Mary Miller noted one correction to be made on the minutes.  The minutes of the February 12, 2008 meeting of the Public Law Section Council as corrected were reviewed and approved.

CO-CHAIRS REPORT

• Barry introduced guest Laurie Beyer-Kropuenske to speak with us about the proposed Data Practices legislation, SF 2345/HF3787 3/10/08 version.  She provided handouts and gave a brief summary of the bill which she has worked on with the Data Practices Committee.  Features included more detail in the definitions of “civil investigative data” and “licensing data”.  There was testimony at the legislature against the bill.  She noted that further action on the bill might involve taking some of the provisions out, but nothing would be added to it.  The Data Practices Committee proposed that the Council support the legislation.  Motion to support the bill as is.  Seconded.  Vote of three in support.  Five abstain.  Some abstaining Council members asked for time to determine whether to vote for or against the legislation.  The Council also sought input from absent members.  The Co-Chairs will work with the Data Practices Committee to obtain additional input. 

• Funding support – Motion made, seconded and passed to provide $300 in support to the Minnesota Justice Foundation.  Motion made, seconded and passed to provide $500 in support of Loan Repayment Assistance Program through the Race for Justice Team in April.  The section also received a request for funding for the Mock Trial program, but this new request was not supported this year. 

• Louis updated us on the MSBA Convention plans.  The CLE will be one and a half hours long, on June 16.  Nancy reported that the Section will conduct a children’s clothing drive for new and slightly used clothing.  She will work to get advertising of it to bring donations in. 

• Barry reported that the Council received 15 applications for the student liaison positions.  He and Louis interviewed the top 5 candidates.  They propose Ellen Anderson, a student at St. Thomas Law School, as 1L liaison and Michael Goodwin, a student at Hamline Law School, as 2L liaison.  Their recommendation was approved by consensus.  Liaisons will be invited to the May meeting. 

TREASURER’S REPORT
Kim Mesun presented a written report. 

COMMITTEE REPORTS
Awards – Jim Alexander reported that a category with few nominations this year is the Wahl Award.  The deadline for nominations was extended to March 21 to seek more nominations.  The committee has another meeting planned.
Community and Public Service – Nancy McLean reported that the next Loaves and Fishes date is next Wednesday.  On May 22, the Section will undertake a day of work for Brush with Kindness, a new Habitat program.  A Legal Assistance Clinic has been arranged at Holy Rosary, the first Wednesday of the month, the alternate months to those in which the Section serves dinner there.  The Clinic will involve a presentation at 6:00 or 6:15 p.m. to those who have eaten and then offer individual consultations after that until 7:30.  VLN will provide the malpractice policy and wants statistics kept on assistance provided.  Identity Theft presentations for seniors are underway and Greg Brooker has been working on this program for nursing homes and similar facilities.  A third program is a Clinic at William Mitchell Law School which Cliff Greene is organizing with volunteers from the League of Minnesota Cities and law students.
The Pro Bono Task Force is working to implement their proposals.
Data Practices – Reported above.
Local Government – No report.
Membership – No report.
Newsletter – Kim reminded all of the March 31 deadline for articles.  Kristen Schroeder has volunteered to help edit the newsletter.
CLE – Mary presented a written report of the Annual Meeting CLE (9 to 11:30 May 16) and the Convention CLE we are planning (9 to 10:30 June 16), as well as two for which the Section is providing notice and advertising.

Nominating Committee Report – Kim Mesun reported that four Council members will be starting the second year of their terms: Tom Kalitowski, Diane Alshouse, Nancy McLean and Greg Brooker.  A mistake was found in previously- reported terms of Greg and Todd.  Those terms are being corrected by these actions.  Those completing terms this summer include Dana Banwer, Jim Alexander, John Choi and Todd Schoffelman.  Dana, John and Todd have agreed to nomination for another term.  Inta Sellar will be nominated for a term.  Nominated for Officers will be Barry Greller, Co-Chair, Mary Miller Co-Chair, Jim Alexander Secretary, and Kim Mesun Treasurer. 

The meeting was adjourned at 1:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Mary Miller
Secretary, Public Law Section

FUTURE MEETINGS
April 8, 2008          Barry Greller – Minnesota Attorney General’s Office, Bremer Tower
May 16, 2008        Annual Meeting at Midland Hills Country Club
June 10, 2008        Tom Kalitwoski – Minnesota Court of Appeals
July 8, 2008           Minneapolis

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 MINUTES
PUBLIC LAW SECTION
EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING

February 12, 2008
Ramsey County Courthouse, St. Paul

MEMBERS PRESENT:  Todd Schoffelman, Mary Miller, Barry Greller, Louis Thayer, Greg Brooker, Dana Banwer, John Choi, Jim Alexander, Diane Alshouse, Kim Buechel-Mesun

MEMBERS EXCUSED: Tom Kalitowski, Nancy McLean

MSBA LIAISON: Kim Basting and VISITOR: Inta Sellars

Co-Chair Louis Thayer called the meeting to order. 

APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The minutes of the January 8, 2008 meeting of the Public Law Section council were reviewed and approved. 

CO-CHAIRS’ REPORT 

• Louis introduced Inta Sellars who works in a parallel position to his at the Department of Human Services.  She has done child protection and child welfare work.  Before that she was an assistant county attorney in northern Minnesota.  She is an adjunct faculty member at a law school.  She is particularly interested in the Public Law Section because of our active pro bono work. 
• The Section’s plans for the Convention are taking shape.  Greg Brooker reported that the speakers for the May CLE might not be willing to go to Duluth and repeat it.  Discussion ensued about alternative topics for a Convention CLE.  There was discussion of data practices as a topic.  It was concluded to contact public law offices near Duluth to find out what would be of interest to them.  Todd will contact the County Attorney’s Office.  Diane will contact the Public Defender’s office in St. Louis County. 
• Race for Justice Event for LRAP April 13, 2008.  Mary, Louis, Jim and another will be running on our Dream Team to raise funds.  Greg volunteered to join the 5K as well.  The team will ask for funding support at the next meeting. 
• Law student liaison search.  Kim Basting has been receiving resumes.  Louis encouraged getting the word out if there are law clerks interested.  The Council

supported the Co-Chairs making the selection.

• Kim Basting distributed updated Section Council rosters.  The email listserve has been updated as well.
• Section Goals were reviewed.  The Section is on schedule for most goals.  In order to publicize the Pro Bono policy that has been developed, Kim Basting will obtain it from Nancy McLean and get it on the web site.  Offices that have adopted it should contact Nancy or Kim so that those offices can be listed as having done so.  The Co-Chairs will email the policy out.

Motion was made to return the CLE credits goal to 15, for the 2007-2008 year.  The 12 credit goal was already met last fall.  Seconded.  Passed with two dissenting votes. 

TREASURER’S REPORT
Kim Buechel Mesun presented a written report.  More dues have come in since members who had dropped out as a result of the recent opt in to Section membership MSBA renewal form, have re-upped.  The Council encouraged the MSBA to return to the former renewal form with opt out needed.  John Choi raised the issue of MSBA membership by public law office.  The City of St. Paul was encouraged to pursue this as a pilot project.
Council needs to decide whether to raise section dues for next year.  Kim presented the proposed budget and encouraged council to continue to keep lunch expenses under $100.  Motion, seconded and approved the proposed budget.  Dues will remain the same.

COMMITTEE REPORTS
Awards – Jim Alexander will arrange for another email to Section members seeking nominations for the Section’s Annual Awards.
Community and Public Service – Loaves & Fishes went well.  The Senior Fair was held recently.
The Pro Bono Task Force will be meeting soon and might have new projects. 
Data Practices – Todd Schoffelman reported that there is much work to be done in this area.  An attorney from MNDOT and one from Carver County are joining the committee.  A recent issue has been when video recordings kept are no longer “security data”.
Local Government – Louis will contact Eileen Wells about conference call for the Council meetings.
Membership – See discussion above.
Newsletter – Kim reported the next newsletter deadline will be around March 30. 
CLE’s – Mary Miller distributed a chart of planned CLE’s.  Greg Brooker volunteered to coordinate the May Annual meeting CLE.  A cost for the annual meeting lunch and/or CLE needs to be set.  Louis and Greg will discuss and decide.  More details about the convention CLE are reported above. 

NEW BUSINESS

• Kim Buechel Mesun, who is on the Juvenile Justice Commission, distributed a detailed description of an upcoming conference, “Connecting Youth to Success; Doing Juveniles Justice in Minnesota”.  It will be on June 19, 2008 and will seek CLE credit.  The cost for the full day seminar will be $60.  She moved that the Section contribute $500 in support, email the information to members, and include it on the Section web site.  The motion was seconded and approved.
• Diane Alshouse noted that, with Jay Heffern’s resignation, the Section does not have an alternative Delegate to Assembly.  She proposed that Dana Banwer fill the remainder of Jay’s term.  Seconded and approved. 
• Greg proposed that the Council not meet on May 13, 2008 (if the meeting is not needed for final details of the Annual meeting)  because we have the annual meeting, awards and CLE on May 16, 2008.  Seconded and approved. 

The meeting was adjourned at 1:20 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Mary Miller
Secretary, Public Law Section

FUTURE MEETINGS
March 11, 2008           Nancy McLean – Hennepin County Attorney’s Office
April 8, 2008                Barry Greller – Minnesota Attorney General’s Office, Bremer Tower
May 16, 2008              Annual Meeting at Midland Hills Country Club
June 10, 2008              Tom Kalitowski – Minnesota Court of Appeals
 

 

           

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Minutes
PUBLIC LAW SECTION
EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING

January 8, 2008
U. S. Attorney’s Office, Minneapolis

MEMBERS PRESENT: Louis Thayer, Barry Greller, Tom Kalitowski, Todd Schoffelman, Mary Miller, Jim Alexander, Kim Buechel Mesun, Barry Greller.

MEMBERS EXCUSED: Diane Alshouse, Dan Mabley, John Choi.

COMMITTEE CHAIRS PRESENT:  Nancy McLean, Carol Lansing.

MSBA LIAISON: Kim Basting and VISITOR: Dana Banwer.

Co-Chair Barry Greller called the meeting to order.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The minutes of the December 11, 2007, meeting of the Public Law Section Council were reviewed.  They were approved as written.

CO-CHAIRS’ REPORT

• Louis reported that a 2 ½ hour slot on Monday afternoon (June 16) is reserved for a Public Law Section CLE during the MSBA Convention this summer.  For the May 16 annual meeting and awards event at Midland Hills the contract for the space and food needs approval.  By consensus Louis was authorized to review and sign the contract. 
• The International Human Rights day/event at Hamline School of Law on March 14, 2008 was discussed briefly.  There are cle credit issues if the PLS were to cosponsor it.  Instead, Kim will publish notice of it in the PLS News, and the MSBA will put it on our web site.  Public Law Section members will still get the rate that they offered, $50 for Friday’s symposium, which will include breakfast and lunch, for helping promote the event.  For the newsletter Kim needed a contact person name.  Louis will supply one. 
• Barry Greller introduced Dana Banwer to the Council.  She is Deputy City Attorney, Criminal Division, for the City of Minneapolis.  She provided information about her background and experience which has been primarily in public service.  She is becoming involved in MSBA and saw the PLS as a good fit.  Motion was made for Dana to fill the remainder of Jay Heffern’s term on the Council which will expire June 31, 2008.  Seconded.  Passed.

Barry reported correspondence from Judge Dan Mabley regretfully stepping down from his role on the Council due to other commitments.  His term expires in June of 2009.  There was discussion of whether the seat should be filled with another judge.  It was noted that two judges already sit on the Council.  The seat left open by Blair Buccicone’s resignation was then discussed.  The term of that seat will expire June 30, 2008.  Motion was made for Nancy McLean to fill the remainder of the June 2009 term and for Greg Brooker to fill the remainder of the June 2008 term on the Executive Council.  Seconded.  Passed. 
There is need to fill student liaison seats on the Council.  Barry and Louis will work with Kim Basting to gather resumes from law students.  There was discussion of the relative merits of 1L or 2L or 3L.  The Co-Chairs will work to fill the two seats. 

• Nominations Committee – A committee is needed to propose a slate for Nomination of new council members and officers at the annual meeting.  Kim Buechel Mesun and Judge Tom Kalitowski volunteered to Co-Chair the Nominations Committee. 

TREASURER’S REPORT
Kim Buechel Mesun presented a written report.  A double payment was avoided.

COMMITTEE REPORTS
Membership – Kim Buechel-Mesun noted that a number of Section members listed as having dropped membership might have done so as a factor of the MSBA not automatically including the Section dues in their dues statements.  The Co-Chairs will do an email to Section members who dropped, informing them what may have happened.  Kim will let us know if groups rejoin.
Awards – Jim Alexander reported that he met with the Co-Chairs to schedule needed actions and publicity.  Actions have now been planned for the year.  Nominations will go to Kim Basting who will compile them.  The Committee will also send nomination requests to the Administrative Law and the Criminal Law Sections this year. 
Community and Public Service – Nancy McLean reported that Loaves and Fishes will be the first Wednesday in February, the 6th.  Volunteers are needed, especially help from those who haven’t been. 
Local Government – Carol Lansing reported Eileen Wells would like to attend Council meetings by phone.  The Co-Chairs will work to connect her for the next meeting.  Kim noted that there are a number of local government attorneys that the Section information might not be getting to.  Carol will use the Government training list to welcome participation in the Section and obtain cle topic requests.
Newsletter – Kim Buechel Mesun has reviewed the newsletter draft.  It is at the MSBA.  Kim will add the new Council member information.  Persons interested in editing the newsletter should contact Kim.
CLE’s – Mary Miller presented a chart of the two possible upcoming cle’s and the Hamline symposium that we are publicizing.  A cle raising public law issues involved in hosting a political convention was discussed in more detail.  Jay Heffern and John Choi had been listed as the PLS Council members for the seminar.  Greg Brooker noted a Task Force working to prepare for the event that involves City Attorneys, U.S. Attorneys, and a Public Safety Attorney General.  They will meet again February 5.  New technology remains a possible topic.  Louis noted that a deposit is needed to hold Midland Country Club for the May annual meeting and awards.  Motion was made to approve $400 deposit to hold the location.  Seconded.  Passed. 
Data Practices – Todd Schoffelman reported that several recent Data Practices Opinions discuss when employer discipline of an employee is considered complete for data release purposes. 

The meeting adjourned at 1:20 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Mary Miller
Secretary, Public Law Section

FUTURE MEETINGS
February 12, 2008       Diane Alshouse – Ramsey County Courthouse
March 11, 2008           Nancy McLean – Hennepin County Attorney’s Office
April 8, 2008                Barry Greller – Minnesota Attorney General’s Office, Bremer Tower

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MINUTES
PUBLIC LAW SECTION
EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING

December 11, 2007
Department of Human Services, St. Paul

MEMBERS PRESENT: Louis Thayer, Tom Kalitowski, Todd Schoffelman, Diane Alshouse, John Choi, Mary Miller, Jim Alexander, Jay Heffern.

MEMBERS EXCUSED: Barry Greller, Kim Buechel Mesun, Dan Mabley

COMMITTEE CHAIRS PRESENT:  Nancy McLean, Margaret Westin

MSBA LIAISON: Kim Basting

Co-Chair Louis Thayer called the meeting to order.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The minutes of the November 13, 2007 meeting of the Public Law Section Council were reviewed.  The minutes were amended to reflect that Tom Kalitowski had been excused.  The amendment passed.

CO-CHAIRS’ REPORT
Louis reported that the Section has a place holder for a cle at the MSBA Convention in Duluth June 15-17, 2008.  The annual meeting and cle will be on May 16, 2008 at Midland Hills.  There was a brainstorm of possible topics for each.

On March 14, 2008, the International Human Rights conference will be at Hamline School of Law.  The Section will not be co sponsoring it.  We have, however, traditionally supported international human rights.  There was motion to support the conference with funding of $200.  The Motion was seconded and carried.  We will print notice of the conference in the newsletter as well. 

The 2008 Equal Justice Conference information was forwarded to Mary Ellison before the deadline, as the Council previously recommended.

TREASURER’S REPORT – No report.

COMMITTEE REPORTS
Awards:  Jim Alexander reported the need for a co-chair.  John Choi volunteered to co-chair.  The committee is preparing publicity.  Information will be provided for PLS News and perhaps an email notice and to Bench & Bar.  Other ideas for notifying and obtaining nominations included County Attorney Associations, City Attorneys, District Court Judges and public law conventions/gatherings. 

Community and Public Service:  Nancy McLean reported that Loaves & Fishes was last Wednesday.  A University of Wisconsin Alumni group is our partner.   We helped support 14 families for Adopt a Family holiday gifts.  At the Convention the Section will conduct a children’s clothing drive - new/slightly used.  Dan Mabley will help Nancy.

Pro Bono Project – is not active in December.  Next Fall William Mitchell will host for cases taken in through SMRLS.  League of MN Cities attorneys will volunteer.  The Senior Citizens Identity Theft seminar went well.  These presentations are assistance that Judges can provide.  Two groups of six volunteers are needed to work on these presentations. 

Data Practices: Todd reported that Margaret went to the Monthly Meeting.  No major new developments were reported.  The Genetic Information project continues to discuss information availability and use, including “ownership” of DNA. 

Local Government: No report.

Membership: Jim reported that follow up on attendees at Section events continues.  The public law offices group discount on MSBA issue has come up again.

Newsletter: The deadline for articles is December 15, 2007.

CLE: Mary introduced the completion of two recent seminars.  Margaret reported that the “Youth, Schools and the Court System” cle seminar on November 5 was well attended by about 120.  It increased and enhanced communication among the courts, schools, and public law offices.  Jay reported that the “Realities of eGovernment” seminar on December 7 was attended by about 60 attorneys.  There was lively discussion from the panel.  St. Thomas was a good facility.  Credit for 2 ½ hours was received. 

The meeting was adjourned at 1:20 p.m.

RECOGNITION OF JAY HEFFERN
The Council recognized and thanked Jay for his 33 years of public service and his years of service to the Public Law Section Council with a plaque, presentation, and cake.  He may no longer be eligible to serve as of 1/2/08. 

FUTURE MEETINGS
January 8, 2008        U.S. Attorney’s Office, Mpls (Jim Alexander)
February 12, 2008     Ramsey County District Court (Diane Alshouse)
March 11, 2008          Minneapolis
April 8, 2008              Attorney General’s Office, Bremer Building (Barry Greller)

Respectfully submitted,
Mary Miller
Secretary, Public Law Section, MSBA

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Minutes
EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING

November 13, 2007
Minneapolis Public Schools, Minneapolis

Present:  Barry Greller, Louis Thayer (telephonically), Kim Mesun, Todd Schoffelman, Kim Basting, Nancy McClean, Margaret Westin, Jay Heffren.

Excused:  Diane Alshouse, Jim Alexander, Dan Mabley, Mary Miller

Agenda:

October minutes passed as amended to read that Judge Mabley had previously indicated that he could not make the October meeting.

Co-Chair Report: 

1. The law school networking program went well with approximately 115 students attending.
2. The Administrative Law Section proposed creating a page of the Public Law Section newsletter.  (Motion to approve allowing the Administrative Law Section to use up to two pages of the next newsletter.  The Administrative Law Section is responsible for any costs associated with distributing the newsletter to its members.  The deadline for any and all submissions for the next newsletter is December 15, 2007.  Motion passed unanimously.)
3. The next MSBA convention is June 15-17 in Duluth.  The PLS participation in the convention will be discussed at the December meeting.
4. The PLS annual meeting is tentatively set for Friday May 16, 2008 at Midland Hills.  A possible topic for CLE/Panel Group is the state of judicial elections in Minnesota.  Possible participants include the League of MN Voters and Brian Melendez.
5. Legislative proposal comments.  (Motion to allow PLS Chairs to comment or not comment on behalf the PLS.  Motion passed unanimously.)
6. The 2008 Equal Justice Conference will be discussed at the December PLS meeting.

Treasurer:

1. Updated budget provided at meeting.
2. The correct balance is $19,382.83.
3. A $219.00 bill will be discussed at the December PLS meeting.

Sub-Committee with reports:

1. Newsletter, the deadline for submissions is December 15, 2007.
2. CLE, a free CLE is set for December 7, 2007 from 1pm-4pm at U of St. Thomas Law School.  Topic:  The Realities of Egovernment.
3. Pro Bono, the VOA event went well.  The next effort is a clothing drive.

Announcements

Unfortunately, Jay Heffren will not be on the PLS Committee next year.   He will suggest a replacement.

Next Meeting:  December 11, 2007 at MN Dept Human Services-Lafayette Building

 

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MINUTES
PUBLIC LAW SECTION
EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING

October 9, 2007
St. Paul City Attorney’s Office

MEMBERS PRESENT: John Choi, Tom Kalitowski, Blair Buccicone, Barry Greller, Diane Alshouse, Todd Schoffelman, Mary Miller, Louis Thayer, Jim Alexander, Kim Buechel Mesun, and Dan Alexander

MEMBERS EXCUSED: Jay Heffern, Dan Mabley

COMMITTEE CHAIRS PRESENT: Nancy McLean

MSBA LIAISON PRESENT: Kim Basting.

Co-Chair Barry Greller called the meeting to order.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The minutes of the September 11, 2007, Public Law Section Council meeting were approved. 

CO-CHAIRS’ REPORT

• Barry reported that the Collateral Consequences CLE on September 25 was an eye opener.  Speakers included Laura Zrust and county attorney.  The St. Thomas facility was nice.  There will be a newsletter article written in follow up.
• Bar Leadership Conference on September 28 included a morning presentation by Lloyd Grooms on the legislative process changes.  Deadlines: for Section proposals to the MSBA is 11/5; for Comment on proposals is 11/21; and for Assembly decisions is 12/4.  There is an internet site which can be set up for “my bills”.  Sections are not to comment separately if the MSBA has adopted a position on a bill.  It is recommended that each Section have a contact person for legislation.  Let Barry or Louis know if you are interested in such task.

The information presented on doing CLE’s was pretty basic, ie. parking is important.  At the afternoon Assembly meeting the Section was not represented.

• Cameras in the Courtroom – There was not a consensus developed on this topic for comment to the MSBA.
• MN Supreme Court Advisory Committee Call for Comments on Judicial Conduct –The MCAA is looking in to this topic.  Nancy requested knowing the deadlines for that purpose.  It is anticipated the Professional Conduct committee will propose changes to the Conduct Rules.  There is information on this topic available on the LPRBd website. 

The Council will revisit this topic at the next meeting. 

• Human Services Judge opening – Louis asked if it would be appropriate to post this notice on the Public Law Section web site.  There was general agreement that that would be ok, assuming there was no cost involved in doing so.

Minnesota Justice Foundation 25th Anniversary Celebration – The Council decided to add this to the “Upcoming Events” menu on our web site. 

2008 Equal Justice Conference – This May 7-9 event, sponsored by the ABA and the National Legal Aid & Defender Association, is seeking workshop proposals and/or request that they cover a particular topic.  Diane asked Mary to forward a copy of the announcement to Mary Ellison at Minnesota Advocates. 

TREASURER’S REPORT – No report.

COMMITTEE REPORTS
a. Awards – No report.
b.  Community and Public Service – Nancy reported that Loaves and Fishes went well this month with our new partners.  The next date will be December 5 from 2:45 to 4:30 or 5:00 p.m.  The Council agreed to support the Adopt A Family project at the holidays again this year. 
October 17, 2007 is the Seniors Project at Excel Energy Center with SMRLS.  We will be doing training on identity theft.  Five sessions will be presented by teams. 
The project undertaken in Hennepin County on elder law with Volunteers of America still needs 9 volunteers to undertake small cases, such as a living will, on a need basis.  Some of the work in this project can include public speaking. 
One of the reasons these projects have been chosen is because of the umbrella insurance backing for them. 
c. Pro Bono – Nancy reported that the drafting part of this project is wrapping up, and it is being moved in to the implementation phase. 
d.  CLE – Mary summarized recent and upcoming CLE’s.  The Collateral Consequences report is in the Co-Chairs’ report.  Todd reported that 65 persons attended the recent Data Practices CLE, a successful outcome. 
e.  Data Practices – Todd gave more information about the Genetic Work Group that will work for about 18 months and result in a report from the Department of Administration to the Legislature.  Twenty five persons are involved, including persons from the BCA, Mayo Clinic and the DNA lab.
f.  Local Government – No report.
g.  Membership – Jim is following up on the list of attendees at our Convention reception.
h. Newsletter – Kim reported that the deadline for the next issue will be December 15, 2007. 

NEW BUSINESS
MSBA Public Law Section – Student Liaison – Barry is looking at resumes for the second student liaison to the Council.
October 23, 2007 is the Law Student Networking Reception for all four law schools.  There is a panel discussion from 4:30 to 5:00 and then the reception is from 5:00 to 5:30 p.m.  Barry will attend for the section.

UPCOMING MEETINGS
November 13, 2007 – Mpls. School Dist. 
December 11, 2007 – MN Dept. of Human Services – Lafayette Bldg.
January 8, 2008 – U.S. Attorney’s Office, Mpls.

Mary Miller
Public Law Section Secretary

 

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MINUTES
PUBLIC LAW SECTION
EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING

September 11, 2007
Minneapolis City Attorney’s Office

MEMBERS PRESENT:  Jay Heffern, Todd Schoffelman, Blair Buccicone, Jim Alexander, Barry Greller, Louis Thayer, Kim Buechel Mesun, Mary Miller

MEMBERS EXCUSED:  Diane Alshouse
John Choi, Tom Kalitowski, Dan Mabley

COMMITTEE CHAIRS PRESENT:  Carol Lansing
MSBA LIAISON PRESENT: Kim Basting

Co-Chair Louis Thayer called the meeting to order.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The minutes of the June 12, 2007, Public Law Section Council meeting were approved. 
The August meeting was canceled when a number indicated that they would not be able to attend. 

CO-CHAIRS’ REPORT

• Review annual goals

Motion was made and seconded for two changes to the Section Goals for this coming year: 
Item 1.  Promote Public Service and Pro Bono – Change, “Continue to develop a” to “Promote the” model pro bono policy…
Item 2. Sponsor Continuing Legal Education – Change, “Sponsor at least 15” to “Sponsor at least 12” and add, “and notify section members of other reasonable cost seminars.”
The changes were approved.

• Committee Chairs for 2007-08

This list was distributed by email.  A printed version was passed for any address changes.

• Newsletter – The question of whether the PLS News should be available to the general public or only available to MSBA Public Law Section members (subscribers) was discussed.  The Council concluded that it should be available to the public.
• Bar Leadership meeting.  This meeting will occur the morning of September 28, 2007.  Let Louis or Barry know if you are interested in attending.

TREASURER’S REPORT
Kim Buechel Mesun distributed the written Treasurer’s report to the Council.  She noted that the Section used the administrative fee cost savings to help fund our spring cle.  The cost of the membership reception at the convention was $1,013.

COMMITTEE REPORTS
Awards – No report.
Community and Public Service – The next Loaves & Fishes date is October 3 at Holy Rosary Church in Minneapolis.
CLE – Mary Miller distributed an updated chart with information on planned cle seminars, including three coming up this fall.  Collateral Consequences of Criminal Arrests and Convictions will be September 25, 2007 with Louis Thayer coordinating.  Functional Understanding of Data Practices will be October 5, with Todd Schoffelman coordinating.  Youth, Schools and the Court System: Dialogue, Part I, will be November 5, 2007 with Kim Buechel Mesun coordinating. 
There was a Motion and Second to add another December cle, Realities of eGovernment: Opportunities, Challenges, Liabilities on December 7, 2007, coordinated by Jay Heffern.  The Council approved.
Mary noted the cle coming up October 1, 2007, The Lawyers’s Role in Protecting Fundamental Rights. 
Data Practices – Todd Schoffelman reported on the last several months’ IPAD Opinions and cases.  He reported that Senate File #2345 will involve Civil Investigative Data classifications.  A Genetic Information Work Group is forming and will have their first meeting September 24. 
Local Government – The next IMLA Conference will be in Nashville, TN from October 28 to 31.
Membership – Jim Alexander will follow up on the Convention cle and reception attendance lists.  The updating of the Public Law Section’s brochure for distribution came up for discussion.  Louis Thayer will review the brochure for any needed changes.
Newsletter – Kim Buechel Mesun reported that the Fall newsletter is out.  The email to members included a hyper-link to access the MSBA web site to review the newsletter.  The deadline for the next issue is December 15, 2007.  Blair Buccione volunteered to help edit it. 
Pro Bono – Exploration of the Elder Law area is still occurring. 

NEW BUSINESS
October 23, 2007, will be the law student networking opportunity put on by the law schools and coordinated between them.  Let Jim Alexander or a Co-Chair know if you can attend. 

UPCOMING MEETINGS
October 9, 2007       St. Paul City Attorney’s Office
November 13, 2007  Minneapolis School District
December 11, 2007   MN Department of Human Services
January 8, 2008        U. S. Attorney’s Office

Mary Miller,
Public Law Section Secretary

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MINUTES
PUBLIC LAW SECTION
EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING

April 10, 2007
MN Dept. of Human Services

MEMBERS PRESENT: Jim Alexander, Dan Alexander, Honorable Diane Alshouse, Blair Buccicone, Honorable Dan Mabley, Kim Buechel Mesun, Barry Greller, Jay Heffern, Mary Miller, Todd Schoffleman, Louis Thayer

MEMBERS EXCUSED: John Choi, Mary Ellison, Honorable Thomas Kalitowski, Eileen Wells

COMMITTEE CHAIRS PRESENT: Nancy McLean

MSBA LIAISON PRESENT: Renee Anderson

12:05pm co-Chair Honorable Diane Alshouse called the meeting to order.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The minutes of the March 13, 2007 Public Law Section Council meeting were approved, as amended.

CO-CHAIRS' REPORT
Louis reported that he spoke to law students at William Mitchell, St. Thomas University School of Law, and Hamline University Law School about public sector law careers. Louis also spoke with the four law schools' career services deans about public law career day in the fall 2007.

TREASURER'S REPORT
Kim Buechel Mesun reported that we received one more membership dues payment. Kim noted the positive effect on our budget of the reduced cost of distributing the newsletter and the removal of the MSBA Administrative Fee.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

" Awards/Luncheon/CLE: Barry Greller and Blair Buccione used the bulk of the meeting directing the council through review and votes on 2007 award recipients. Barry and Blair will oversee publication of the awards notice. Members were assigned duties to present the awards to recipients. Louis will contact former Justice Kathleen Blatz to present award to Quy Dam. Mary M. will publish in the Spring newsletter. Kim M. will get written comments from presenters for the summer/fall newsletter. Louis agreed to order the awards and make arrangements for the CLE panel. Jay will act as emcee at the awards luncheon. Barry and Blair will create table top "brochures" listing the award recipients.

" Community & Public Service: Nancy McLean reported the success of the most recent Loaves & Fishes event on April 4, 2007. We should have another financial and volunteer partner by the next Loaves & Fishes on June 6th. Nancy reported that the Habitat for Humanity event is on April 27, 2007. Mary M., Louis, Jim and Mary E. to participate in the "Race for Justice" event on April 15th to benefit Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP). We also pledged $250 of support for the event.

" CLE: Mary Miller reported on CLEs: May 18th Annual meeting will include a 2.5 credit CLE about domestic abuse of immigrant and refugee women in MN; there will be a CLE at the convention on June 28th; there will be a 3 credit CLE in October 2007 on data practices issues.

" Data Practices: Todd Schoffelmann reported that the group will host a CLE event in October 2007.

" Local Government: No report.

" Membership: No report.

" Newsletter: Mary is the editor for the Spring 2007 newsletter. Deadline for articles is April 13th.

" Pro Bono: Nancy McLean & Jay Heffern reported that the new draft Pro Bono Policy should be approved by MSBA later in April 2007. Nancy also asked that the Public Law Section support SMRLS Senior Fair in fall 2007(?). The group agreed to support the event. In addition, Nancy asked for assistance from the public law section for a project sponsored by Volunteers of America. The program will be rolled out in 2007 and will match volunteers with seniors to ensure that the seniors receive proper financial assistance.

FUTURE MEETINGS
May 8, 2007: Honorable Dan Mabley, Henn. County Govt. Center, Minneapolis
June 12, 2007: Honorable Thomas Kalitowski, State Cts. Bldg, St. Paul
August 14, 2007: Diane Alshouse, St. Paul, Ramsey County Courts Bldg.

--the meeting was adjourned by Diane at 1:20pm.

Minutes respectfully submitted by LAT.

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MINUTES
PUBLIC LAW SECTION
EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING

JANUARY 9, 2007
U.S. ATTORNEY'S OFFICE

MEMBERS PRESENT: Dan Alexander, Honorable Diane Alshouse, Blair Buccicone, Kim Buechel Mesun, Barry Greller, Jay Heffern, Mary Miller

MEMBERS EXCUSED: John Choi, Honorable Thomas Kalitowski, Eileen Wells, Mary Ellison, Louis Thayer

COMMITTEE CHAIRS PRESENT: Nancy McLean, Margaret Westin, Greg Brooker, Todd Schoffelman

MSBA LIAISON PRESENT: Renee Anderson

12:10pm co-Chair Honorable Diane Alshouse called the meeting to order.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The minutes of the December 12, 2006 Public Law Section Council meeting were approved.

CO-CHAIRS' REPORT
Council vacancy- The council voted to add the Honorable Dan Mabley to the council to replace the Honorable Joanne Smith, who regretfully had to step down due to scheduling conflicts.

3rd Annual Law Student Networking Program - Thursday, Feb. 8 - at MSBA offices. Louis Thayer and Jay Heffern have agreed to represent the PLS at this event.

TREASURER'S REPORT

COMMITTEE REPORTS

" Awards: Barry Greller and Blair Buccione reported that they have secured the date of May 18 at the Midland Hills Golf Course in Falcon Heights for the 2007 Awards Luncheon. The group also approved the date of March 1 for nominations for the awards. The CLE program for the annual awards/meeting will consist of the Pangea World Theater performance of "Journey to Safety".

Community & Public Service: Nancy McLean reported

" CLE: Mary reported that she has yet to hear from Terry O'Brien about an expert in risks and exposures for a CLE at the MSBA Convention.

" Data Practices: Todd reported a new Data Practices Series that will be on the web on January 11, February 8, & March 8, 2007, from MINNESOTA CLE.

" Local Government: No report.

" Membership: No report.

" Newsletter: Greg reported that the Winter Newsletter should be ready any day now.

" Pro Bono: Nancy McLean that the Pro Bono Task force met with Kathie Battle from SMRLS and have committed to participate in the Elder fair in the fall. It will combine education and one-one -one advice only clinics. SMRLS is looking for 25 one time volunteers who may be interested on a continuing commitment. Kathie is planning to have researched and prepared canned presentations on certain topics (living wills, grandparent rights, etc.) and she will then find volunteers for the presentations when asked by a senior group. She is working on both the senior fair and the ongoing availability of speakers for seniors.

The Pro Bono task force will also be committing to the VOA payor program. Details will be forthcoming.

FUTURE MEETINGS
February 13, 2007: Barry Greller, MN Attorney General's Office
March 13, 2007: Jay Heffern, Minneapolis Attorney's Office

--the meeting was adjourned by Diane at 1:10pm.

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MINUTES
PUBLIC LAW SECTION
EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING

December 12, 2006
St. Paul City Attorney's Office

MEMBERS PRESENT: Jim Alexander, Dan Alexander, Honorable Diane Alshouse, Blair Buccicone, Kim Buechel Mesun, Mary Ellison, Barry Greller, Jay Heffern, Louis Thayer

MEMBERS EXCUSED: John Choi, Honorable Thomas Kalitowski, Eileen Wells

COMMITTEE CHAIRS PRESENT: Nancy McLean

MSBA LIAISON PRESENT: Renee Anderson

12:10pm co-Chair Honorable Diane Alshouse called the meeting to order.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The minutes of the November 14, 2006 Public Law Section Council meeting were approved.

CO-CHAIRS' REPORT
Council vacancy-D. Christopher Smith has withdrawn his application to be on the council due to work schedule conflicts. Diane noted that she would speak with Honorable Joann Smith about remaining on the council. The council agreed to approach Honorable Dan Mabley if Smith vacated her seat to see if he is interested in serving on the council.

Louis reported that the Public Interest Law Career Expo at Hamline Law School on November 14, 2006 was successful with estimates of over 100 law students seeking information about public sector law careers.

Renee reported that the MSBA volunteer policy on reimbursements has been tabled until the spring 2007 for further discussion by the MSBA governing board.

Louis shared letter of appreciation from Minnesota Justice Foundation for the PLS $300 donation toward summer internships.

TREASURER'S REPORT
Kim Buechel Mesun distributed a written report that covered the fiscal year through the end of October. Kim noted the positive effect on our budget of the reduced cost of distributing the newsletter and the removal of the MSBA Administrative Fee. Dues still appeared to be ~$398 behind the projected budget.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

" Awards: Barry Greller and Blair Buccione reported that the Awards co-chairs are continuing their search for a new venue for the May 2007 Awards Luncheon. The most promising site to date is the Midland Hills location in Falcon Heights. The group also approved the notice seeking nominations for the awards. Barry and Blair will oversee publication of the notice in January 2007. There was discussion but no decision on the CLE program for the annual awards/meeting.

" Community & Public Service: Nancy McLean reported the success of the Holiday Adopt A Family Program. Several families received useful gifts and financial donations to Catholic Charities, Lutheran Social Services, and Corner House.

Loaves and Fishes was Wednesday, December 6. The next Loaves & Fishes is February 7, 2007.

" CLE: There was more discussion of a possible February CLE on "Impeachment Law" presented by former U.S. Attorney Betsy de la Vega. Mary reported she is awaiting an update from Terry O'Brien about an expert in risks and exposures for a CLE at the MSBA Convention. The February 2007 cle on using interpreters has been dropped.

" Data Practices: No report.

" Local Government: No report.

" Membership: No report.

" Newsletter: The deadline for the Winter Newsletter is December 31. Greg is seeking an article on the White I and II cle in December.

" Pro Bono: Nancy McLean reported that the new draft Pro Bono Policy was approved by the LAD committee. The next step is MSBA full approval. Nancy also asked that the Public Law Section support SMRLS Senior Fair in spring 2007. The group agreed to support the event. In addition, Nancy asked for assistance from the public law section for a project sponsored by Volunteers of America. The program will be rolled out in 2007 and will match volunteers with seniors to ensure that the seniors receive proper financial assistance. The support from the public law section will include a call for volunteers and posting on the section's website.

FUTURE MEETINGS
January 9, 2007: Jim Alexander, U.S. Attorney's Office
February 13, 2007: Barry Greller, MN Attorney General's Office
March 13, 2007: Jay Heffern, Minneapolis Attorney's Office

--the meeting was adjourned by Diane at 1:20pm.

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MINUTES
PUBLIC LAW SECTION
EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING

October 10, 2006
Department of Human Services, St. Paul

MEMBERS PRESENT: Jim Alexander, Kim Buechel Mesun, Barry Greller, Mary Miller, Louis Thayer, Diane Alshouse, John Choi, Mary Ellison, Blair Buccicone

MEMBERS EXCUSED: Joanne Smith, Jay Heffern, Tom Kalitowski, Edith-Nicole Cameron

COMMITTEE CHAIRS PRESENT: Nancy McLean, Margaret Westin

MSBA LIAISON PRESENT: Renee Anderson

Co-Chair Diane Alshouse called the meeting to order at 12:05 p.m.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The minutes of the September 12, 2006, Council meeting were approved.

CO-CHAIRS' REPORT
Louis Thayer has issued a letter thanking Mary Kempton, of MSBA staff, for the good work she has done with and for the Section.
The Co-Chairs recommended to the Council that Dan Alexander be appointed to fill the student liaison opening to the Executive Council. The recommendation was adopted by consensus.

Diane Alshouse reported that the Co-Chairs followed up on the MSBA Volunteer Policy by reporting to Lisa M. Brabitt our support for the current policy.

Information was provided about The Public Interest Law Career Expo that will be occurring at Hamline Law School on November 14, 2006, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.. Louis will attend representing both the Department of Human Services and the Public Law Section of the MSBA. Diane will attend for the Section as well.
A Government Job and Internship Fair for government agencies to meet with students and alumni from Minnesota colleges and universities will occur on October 27, 2006. In addition, Marta Chou has been in contact to tell us about their court clerk program. Again minority lawyers and law students are encouraged to apply.

MSBA ASSEMBLY REPORT - was reserved for the next meeting of the Council.

TREASURER'S REPORT
Kim Buechel-Mesun distributed a written report. She noted that the Section is only $1,000 away from its dues receipt goal for the year.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Community and Public Service - There was general agreement to do Adopt a Family again this year for the holidays. The Section is scheduled to do Loaves & Fishes on December 6, 2006 at 2:45 p.m.

Pro Bono - Nancy McLean also reported that there is a draft report out from this committee. She will circulate it to us. For public entities it creates a category of "previously approved" services and then creates a structure for approval vel non of other categories of services that were not previously approved. Underway is discussion of a kick-off project involving advice-only assistance to senior citizens in areas such as identity theft and Social Security benefits. We are in contact with SMRLS and with Volunteers of America on it. One goal is to have the county attorneys review the policy at their December meeting.

Awards -the annual meeting with awards and cle will be on May 18, 2007. The committee is looking at the new Anderson Building as a site, but needs to find out about catering there. Since the building cost can be kept low, paying for parking is less of a problem.

CLE's - Mary Miller distributed a chart of prospective cle's that the Section is planning, sponsoring or co-sponsoring. Two are scheduled with Minneapolis City Attorney's Office - October 20 and December 6. Louis is working on a mid-November eob cle with the Life & the Law Committee. The annual meeting cle has a goal of bringing in the Mixed Blood Theatre. The Spring 2007 one on Local Government Topics is moving toward Education Law with Kim assisting. Mary will contact Terry O'Brien about seminar(s) on Exposures and Risk planning. We will follow up with Terry Adkins on the Minnesota Association of City Attorneys Conference.

Data Practices - Todd Schoffelman of the Sherburne County Attorney's Office has agreed to co-chair this committee.

Newsletter - Greg Brooker will edit the next newsletter. The goal is for a late December deadline for the newsletter. He is looking for articles. A suggestion was to include the list of resources for public law employment that was put together for the Section. Appreciation for the work on that list was expressed to Mary Ellison and to Blair Buccicone.

Local Government - No report.

Membership - No report.

NEW BUSINESS
The Council received application from persons interested in filling the vacant Executive Council seat. There was discussion of whether the qualifications set out in the By Laws of the Section were met. There was a motion to appoint D. Christopher Smith, who is with the League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust. It was seconded. The Motion passed.

The meeting adjourned at 1:15 p.m.

FUTURE MEETINGS
November 14: Kim Buechel Mesun - Minneapolis School District
December 12: John Choi- St. Paul City Attorney's Office
January 9: Jim Alexander - U. S. Attorney's Office

Respectfully submitted:

Mary Miller
Secretary Pro Tem

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MINUTES
PUBLIC LAW SECTION
EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING
August 8, 2006
Ramsey County Public Defender's Office