Now Showing on CSi 68:  Valley City (CSi) The Valley City Commission met in Special Session Friday at 7-a.m., at City Hall. Mayor Werkhoven was not present. The meeting was conducted by Vice President Pedersen.

The City Commission met to approve an attorney to replace Vogel Law Firm to advise city and provide opinion specific to the permissibility of the grievances filed against the mayor by four city employees and how the employee manual and code of conduct apply to the process going forward.

The Vogel Law Firm indicated that it had a conflict of interest.

The Commissioner held two special meetings a week ago – Feb 11- on this issue.   Those meetings can be heard below:


Commissioner Luke asked if the Mayor’s apology at Tuesday’s meeting – Feb 16-  led to any grievances being withdrawn.

Commissioner Nielson said she was doubtful that will happen.

Auditor Richter said she had no indication that the grievances had been withdrawn.

Commissioner Magnuson suggested a mediator.

He then suggested that he meet with the Mayor and those four individuals bringing the grievances against the Mayor to determine if the grievances stand or a settlement can be reached without mediation.

Richter suggested clarifying which city manual should be used in determining the process.

Commissioner Nielson moved to have Commissioner Magnuson talk with those bringing greivances against the Mayor and if just one indicates they would not drop the grievance, that the city proceed with hiring an attorney for advice on proceeding, which was approved unanimously.

It was noted that those bringing the grievances will pay their own legal fees.

The meeting was shown live on CSi 68 followed by replays.