Title
Resolution to Approve Amendment No. 2 to the Agreement Between the City of Ann Arbor and Rosati, Schultz, Joppich & Amtsbuechler, P.C. for Legal Services Related to a Michigan Tax Tribunal Real Property Tax Appeal ($40,000.00)
Memorandum
The City Assessor's office has been trying to resolve a property tax dispute for a large commercial property owner for at least six months. In December 2019 Council approved outside legal support to assist with negotiations; however, the tax appeal appears to be heading towards the Michigan Tax Tribunal for resolution. The taxes in dispute over two years total approximately $1.159 million for all taxing entities. The City Assessor's Office, in consultation with the City Attorney's Office, believes the existing legal contract needs to be amended from $25,000 to $40,000 to reflect the additional costs associated with defending the City's position at the tribunal. These costs include the cost of preparation and defense for a potentially two week trial.
Specifically, staff requests Council approve the attached Amendment Number 2, to the agreement between the City of Ann Arbor, ("City") and Rosati, Schultz, Joppich, & Amtsbuechler, P.C, ("Contractor") for Legal Services, which is dated June 1, 2019, as amended by Amendment Number 1 (collectively referred to as the "Agreement").
Staff
Prepared by: Jerry Markey, Assessor
Reviewed by: Tom Crawford, Financial Services Area Administrator & CFO
Approved by: Howard S. Lazarus, City Administrator
Body
Whereas, The City of Ann Arbor entered into an agreement for legal services with Rosati, Schultz, Joppich, & Amtsbuechler, P.C. for Legal Services on June 10, 2019 ("Agreement");
Whereas, On December 10, 2019, the agreement for legal services was amended, through Amendment Number 1 to amend the schedule of fees and costs paid to Rosati, Schultz, Joppich, & Amtsbuechler, P.C. for Legal Services;
Whereas, The schedule of fees and costs paid to Rosati, Schultz, Joppich, & Amt...
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