[DES MOINES, Iowa] — The Iowa Supreme Court issued a new ruling this morning, upholding the Cedar Rapids City Council's decision to conduct a closed-session job interview. This decision also clarifies how the state's Open Meetings Act is applied to hiring processes.

The case originated in April 2021 when the Cedar Rapids City Council held a special meeting to interview Alissa Van Sloten for the city clerk position.

The justices ruled that a job interview can be conducted in a closed session if the candidate requests it to protect their reputation.

The court stated that proof of harm is not necessary, but both the council and the candidate must agree to close the session.

Additionally, the ruling ensures that records from closed sessions remain confidential.

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