Brookings City Council prepares for legal services transition ahead of attorney retirement

The Special City Council Meeting held on April 10, 2025, in Brookings, South Dakota, focused primarily on the transition of legal services following the upcoming retirement of long-serving City Attorney Steve Britzman. The meeting provided an opportunity for council members to discuss the implications of this change and the process for selecting a new legal firm.

During the meeting, it was highlighted that the city has historically contracted legal services, with Britzman providing approximately 50 to 60 hours of work each month. With his retirement imminent, the city has solicited proposals from legal firms, receiving submissions from two candidates. The council aims to finalize the selection by April 22, 2025, when they will vote on the new city attorney.

A key point of discussion was the importance of having a lead attorney to ensure efficient communication and organization within the legal team. Council members emphasized the need for a point person to manage information flow and prevent overlapping work among attorneys. The selected firm is expected to maintain a collaborative approach, allowing for quick responses to city needs.

Council Member Specker raised a suggestion regarding the possibility of Britzman continuing to attend meetings in a part-time capacity to assist with procedural matters during the transition. Representatives from the legal firms expressed their willingness to work alongside Britzman, recognizing the value of his experience and institutional knowledge.

The meeting underscored the city's commitment to a smooth transition in legal services, ensuring that the new attorney can effectively serve the council and the community. The council's decision on the new legal firm will be a significant step in maintaining continuity in the city's legal affairs.