9.A. ID 21-0260 Executive Session, pursuant to SDCL 1-25-2.1 for purposes of discussing the qualifications, competence, performance, character or fitness of any public officer or employee or prospective public officer or employee. The term "employee" does not include any independent contractor; and SDCL 1-25-2.3 for consulting with legal counsel or reviewing communications from legal counsel about proposed or pending litigation or contractual matters.