We’ve run off yet another quality legal firm in Fountain Hills

For the second time in about seven years, the Town of Fountains Hills has managed to run off established attorney firms that specialize in representing cities and towns. In Fall 2017, under Mayor Kavanagh, it happened to Gust Rosenfeld. Now, under Mayor Friedel, it's Pierce-Coleman that has been run off.  

The circumstances are the same, too. The common denominator appears to be some council members not liking the attorney's advice. I felt it was an implied promise in the 2024 election cycle. And lest anyone be surprised, Councilwoman Earle led the charge. That's right, with less than five months on the job. And she knows best? 

And what's the future? Probably another contract provider. “In-house” attorneys are not affordable (staff support, materials, supplies, office space, etc.). The town has done that analysis before. It will be the same this time, too. Contracting will prevail.

But will reputable firms apply? Or will we get a “family favorite?” Fountain Hills' reputation and history will count when it comes to applicants, and what they think of the opportunity.

So, we'll see what the market will bear. And, by the way, we might want to rethink that budget line item. It's been six years since that flat fee rate has changed!

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