The Finance Administration Committee reviewed proposed solicitor rates for two Narberth authorities and recommended approval to council on June 24.

Committee members discussed a recommended municipal rate of $185 per hour for James Gallagher of Kilkenny Law to serve as solicitor for the Narberth Industrial Development Authority. The packet noted the IDA’s prior long-serving solicitor, Fred Wentz, had retired. Committee members confirmed Kilkenny Law’s engagement would be a municipal arrangement and that conflicts would be flagged and managed if they arise. “So, we recommend that we bring him on board,” a staff member said referring to Gallagher.

Separately, the committee reviewed the zoning hearing board’s selection of Michael Crotty of Sienna Law as solicitor. The zoning hearing board conducted interviews and selected Crotty; staff reported Crotty’s rate at $205 per hour and described that rate as consistent with municipal zoning practice. The committee voted to recommend the proposed rates; the committee’s role was to recommend fee approval while the appointments themselves will be made by council or the zoning hearing board as appropriate.

Both recommendations passed in committee by voice vote; staff noted the zoning hearing board has statutory authority to appoint its own solicitor and that the committee’s action was to approve the proposed hourly rates.