City Council approves Campbell Durant as legal advisor for pension plans

The St. Marys City Council took significant steps to enhance its legal support for pension plans during their meeting on June 16, 2025. The council unanimously approved the appointment of Campbell Durant as the legal advisor for the city’s pension plans, following the retirement of the previous attorney, Randy Rhoades.

The decision came after a thorough process that included advertising for proposals throughout April. Despite the outreach, only one proposal was received from Campbell Durant, which was recommended by Rhoades himself. Council members expressed the importance of having specialized legal support for pension-related issues, which can arise infrequently but require expert handling.

Council discussions highlighted the limited frequency of legal services needed, with estimates suggesting that the firm may only be engaged for a few hours each year, primarily for specific cases such as divorce or death affecting pension beneficiaries. This underscores the council's aim to ensure that the city is prepared for any legal complexities that may arise without incurring unnecessary costs.

In addition to the pension legal services, the council also discussed the potential for negotiating loan interest rates, indicating a proactive approach to financial management. Council members emphasized the importance of exploring flexible options as interest rates fluctuate.

The approval of Campbell Durant marks a strategic move for the city, ensuring that it has access to specialized legal expertise while maintaining fiscal responsibility. The council's decisions reflect a commitment to safeguarding the interests of pension plan participants and managing the city's legal affairs effectively.