By Doug Barrett Apr 27, 2021 7:55 AM A plan to move all department heads from classified to contract status received a cool reception from the Grand Forks council last night (Monday). Supporters say the move would give the city more flexibility in hiring and put all positions on a level playing field. Council President Dana Sande says he supports the idea. Critics say being a classified employee offers some protections and helps to eliminate the pressure of politics. Council member Ken Vien is a former city engineer who says he knows about that first hand. “How do you around all the politics make sure we as council members get good information from department heads that isn’t influenced by politics.”