Conversations in South St. Paul - Ep. 9 | Kori Land - City Attorney

This episode of "Conversations in South St. Paul" features an in-depth interview with Corey Land, the City Attorney for South St. Paul, conducted on November 26, 2025. The discussion covers her background, role, and responsibilities as city attorney, including her work with city staff and elected officials to navigate legal and policy issues. While the conversation touches on various aspects of municipal governance, it notably highlights her involvement in development projects, ordinance crafting, and legal risk management to support economic development while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Specific procurement-related topics include her role in facilitating complex development agreements, such as the challenging "yards and backyards" project involving multiple lots, street vacations, and HUD encumbrances, demonstrating the legal groundwork necessary for capital improvement and redevelopment efforts. The interview also addresses the importance of transparency, compliance with open meeting laws, and the legal constraints that shape city council operations and decision-making. No direct contract awards or vendor selections were discussed, but the legal oversight provided by the city attorney is integral to procurement and development activities within the city.