At Monday’s Newton City Council meeting, councilors voted 5-1 to retain the services of Sikich LLP of Naperville, Ill., to conduct mission and goal-setting meetings for the council and city officials.

Councilor Dennis “D.J.” Julius was the lone “no” vote. Holding a copy of the last goal-setting plan in his hand, he said he felt there was enough wisdom and experience within the existing council and city staff to conduct such meetings without the aid of an outside consultant, particularly at the price the city will be paying.

Sikich will be paid a fee of not more than $16,900, based on the resolution approved Monday night.