Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Question Seven: City Attorney

7. Are you happy with the services provided by our current city attorney? What are the advantages of keeping Mr. Adams if you retain him? If you would like to replace him who would be your choice and why are they a good choice?

Dennis Patton's Reply
The length of Tom Adams tenure as City attorney indicates that past City Councils have been satisfied with his services. It was reported at the March City Council meeting that an Alderman and the Mayor had directed the City Administrator to begin developing a Request for Qualifications for the City Attorney position. I believe it is a good practice to seek out competitive bids for these services on periodic bases, regardless of the City’s satisfaction with their legal representation. Mr. Adams would have the opportunity to make a proposal along with any other interested legal firms. He has the advantage of holding a wealth of experience and information that should give him an edge in submitting a very competitive proposal. If he is not selected the City forfeits the benefit of his past knowledge, but competition is good. Wit the current budget situation the City must get the best possible legal council for the lowest possible price.


Kevin Hutchinson's Reply
The city legal services have been under scrutiny. Many months ago asked the Contracts Chair (Jay Unnerstall) to put together a request for proposals (RFP) for legal services. I asked Alderman Unnerstall because he leads the majority of the alderman and he has often argued with current legal opinions. Over half a year later, we still do not have a RFP. I asked the city administrator a month ago to complete this task and it will be done for the next council meeting.


Harold McCarty's Reply
I am not happy with the way our legal services are handled. This past year we paid three separate attorneys. I think it would be much more cost effective to look at different avenues for legal advice.

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