Brookings City Council selects Woods Fuller as new city attorney amid public concerns

In a pivotal City Council meeting held on April 22, 2025, the Brookings City Council took significant steps towards enhancing its governance by selecting a new city attorney and appointing a council member to fill a vacant seat. These decisions reflect the council's commitment to effective legal representation and community engagement.

The council authorized City Manager Paul Briceno to enter into an agreement for city attorney services, ultimately selecting Woods Fuller Law Firm from Sioux Falls. This decision followed a thorough evaluation process, including proposals from two law firms, Woods Fuller and Cutler Law Firm. Both firms presented their qualifications to the council and city staff, showcasing their experience in municipal law. Council members expressed appreciation for the quality of both proposals but highlighted Woods Fuller’s extensive experience with municipalities similar to Brookings as a deciding factor.

Public comments during the meeting included concerns about Woods Fuller’s past conduct, with one resident citing negative experiences with the firm. Despite these concerns, council members emphasized the importance of the firm’s municipal background and their commitment to serving the community. The council's decision to proceed with Woods Fuller reflects a broader strategy to ensure that the city has competent legal counsel capable of addressing its unique challenges.

In addition to the attorney selection, the council appointed Dr. Lisa Hager to fill a vacant council seat, a decision that followed a public application process. Dr. Hager, who has previously served as vice chair of the city charter review commission, was recognized for her collaborative approach and understanding of local issues. Council members noted the high level of public engagement during the selection process, with many community members providing feedback on the candidates. This appointment not only fills a critical leadership role but also underscores the council's commitment to transparency and community involvement in governance.

The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism as the council looks forward to working with both Woods Fuller and Dr. Hager. These decisions are expected to enhance the city’s legal framework and governance, ultimately benefiting the Brookings community. As the council moves forward, it will continue to assess the effectiveness of these appointments and their impact on city operations.