The city attorney having such qualifications, powers and duties, as are prescribed by law for city attorneys in cities of comparable population, shall be appointed by the mayor and council. It shall be his duty to advise the mayor and council, and each member thereof, and the city manager upon all law questions, and he shall give opinions in writing when requested and shall represent the City as attorney in all litigation, in all courts, for or against the City; and shall perform such other legal services in behalf of the City, its officers and employees, as may be required by the mayor and council. No person shall be appointed city attorney who has not been regularly admitted to practice before the Supreme Court of this State. All assistant city attorneys shall be appointed by the city attorney and approved by the mayor and council.
The mayor and council may authorize the city attorney to employ and supervise such additional employee or employees as may be necessary for the efficient discharge of his duties. The city attorney may submit an annual budget through the city manager outlining the amounts required for the proper conduct of his office, to include requirements for personnel, office equipment, supplies or any other needs the city attorney may determine. (Amended General Election, April 3, 1979).
The salary and compensation of the city attorney shall be fixed by the mayor and council and paid monthly. (As amended in 1937).