The Winslow City Council held a special meeting in executive session with Attorney David Brown of Brown and Brown Law Firm on Tuesday before its regular meeting. During that meeting legal advice was given and discussion was held regarding pending litigation associated with the Little Colorado River adjudication, legal issues regarding the city’s water supply and contracts relating to it, and finally, the potential purchase of real property.

City Attorney Ellen Van Riper reported that the Arizona State Liquor Board voted 4-1 to deny a liquor license request that the council had voted to recommend denial of after she and Police Chief Steve Garnett explained their concerns.

City Manager Stephen Pauken said that this was the first time he had heard of a license request denied because of a city’s recommendation.

Van Riper spoke at length about a possible future ordinance to prohibit the smoking of marijuana, including medical marijuana, or the use of electronic smoking devices in enclosed public places. She went into great detail about the reasons for concern and while no action was taken, the council did ask that such an ordinance be prepared for future use.

Pauken reported on recent city activities, saying that the city may hire a certified dredge operator to dredge and clean the McHood Park Lake. He spoke about some actions that may be necessary in the future to accomplish improving the lake.

He also announced that Allen Rosenbaum would become director of public works on Sept. 22 as Scott Lancaster’s last day in that position will be Sept. 19. Ken Westover is being promoted to assistant public works director.

Police Lt. Ken Arend announced the promotion of Corporal Jason Therman to sergeant and presented him with his badge.

Councilman Bob Schlesinger said that on a trip to Sedona, a Sedona fireman had commented about the good work of Fire Chief James Hernandez and the Winslow Fire Department.

During the call to the public, citizens spoke of the need for more lights between the Indian Health Care facility and Hipkoe Drive, a request of information on plans for renovating the animal care facility and information about the many activities planned for the city in September, beginning with the 9/11 festivities.

In other action Sept. 9, the council:

* Approved an intergovernmental agreement with the Navajo County Sheriff’s office regarding Byrne Grant funding for fiscal year 2014-15.

* Adopted, after considerable discussion, an ordinance amending the city code to require the use of a vault or liner for all interments in the city cemetery.

The vote was 4-2, with Councilmen Marshall Losey, Curtis Hardy, Harold Soehner and Mayor Robin Boyd approving, and Councilmen Bob Schlesinger and Thomas Chacon opposing the measure.

* Proclaimed September as Hispanic Heritage Month. The proclamation was presented to Pauline Hernandez, who invited all to attend a celebration on Saturday.

* Adopted the consent calendar, giving approval of the check register and minutes of the Aug. 26 council meeting.