Some attorneys will agree to be on call, attend board meetings and other duties for a flat, monthly fee. IAPD has a list of attorneys who have extensive experience and expertise in park district law. Although there is no magic formula for preventing a lawsuit, boards can take several precautions to reduce the likelihood of being sued. Here are a few tips. Insist on complete and accurate minutes.
Minutes are a legal record, and accuracy is of utmost importance.
They should identify the agency, the date, the time and place of the meeting, the names of the board members recorded as either present or absent, a general description of all matters discussed or decided, and a record of any vote taken. Minutes may be corrected at any time by board members who were present at the meeting and are still in office. A withdrawn motion is not recorded in the minutes. If practical, have all motions made in writing. Minutes are usually approved by general consent.