Page 141 - Manfield FY21 Budget

LEGAL SERVICES

MISSION STATEMENT:

The mission of Legal Services is to be the legal advisor to the City of Mansfield and all offices, staff and
departments within the organization.

Department at a Glance

Legal services for the city have been consolidated for FY 2020-2021. Two full-time equivalent positions
were eliminated, and only the estimated fees for outside legal services are included in the FY 2020-2021
budget.

Key Goals and Objectives

Goal 1
Reduce the legal exposure of the City in its operation.

Objectives:
• Provide guidance and assistance to City staff and City Council.
• Review contracts, ordinances and resolutions to ensure legal conformity.
• Work with staff to recognize risk exposure.

Goal 2
Provide cost effective and accurate legal counsel to City Council, staff and various boards within the City.

Objectives:
• Advise City Council, boards and staff of changes in legislation and develop changes as needed.
• Provide timely review and preparation of documents.

Goal 3
Represent and settle claims against the City.

Objectives:
• Work closely with City Council, boards and staff to advise an expeditious course of action and
effective settlement.
• Determine weaknesses and strengths of any case filed and recommend a prompt and cost
effective settlement.

Performance Objectives
• Eliminate lawsuits and settle any claims against the City of Mansfield.
• Provide cost effective, timely and accurate legal services.

Legal Actual Actual Budget Budget % Change
Summary 2017-2018 2018-2019 2019-2020 2020-2021 2020-2021

Personnel Services $ 498,971 $ 463,929 $ 420,139 $ - -100.00%

Operations 300,209 212,177 341,360 332,500 -2.60%

Total $ 799,180 $ 676,107 $ 761,499 $ 332,500 -56.34%

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