The council considered a proposal to authorize the finance department to secure professional services with MGT Impact Solutions for continuing services up to $82,000 through May 2026.

Multiple aldermen questioned why the city contracted through an out‑of‑state firm rather than local temp or consulting services, and raised the hourly rate cited by staff ($145/hour). Several members objected to rehiring — even as a contractor — a former city employee who had previously sued the city and signed a no‑rehire settlement; Alderman Turner and Alderman Hayes argued taxpayer sensitivity to that history and warned about appearance and precedent. One alderman said the proposed consultant lives out of the region and would work remotely, with travel reimbursed for in‑person meetings.

Supporters of vetting the candidate noted the individual's institutional knowledge, but multiple council members recommended exploring local alternatives or renegotiating terms, and some said the selection process lacked sufficient market shopping. After extended debate Alderman Martinez asked for extra time to do homework and moved to hold the matter over; the council agreed to postpone the vote to the next meeting for further review.

Next steps: staff was directed to return with more information, including alternative local candidates, clarified contract terms and an explanation of the hiring process, before council completes an authorization.