(a) Interference with Administration. Except for the purpose in inquiry and investigation, the Council, its committees, and members, including the Mayor, shall deal with municipal officers and employees in the administrative service only through the Manager. Neither the Council, its committees or any member shall interfere with the appointment or removal of any officer or employee subordinate to the Manager nor give any order to a subordinate of the Manager either publicly or privately, except as otherwise provided in this Charter.
(b) Investigations. Notwithstanding the above, the Council may make investigations into municipal affairs and the conduct of any department or agency and for this purpose may subpoena witnesses, administer oaths, take testimony, and require the production of evidence. Any person who fails or refuses to obey a lawful order issued in the exercise of this power shall be guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than $50.00 or such other sum as Council shall ordain, or by imprisonment for not more than thirty days, or both; and if such person is an employee of the administrative service of the Municipality, such refusal shall be grounds for dismissal.