Two law firms present bids for Milton city attorney; council to choose in May

Representatives of two law firms presented proposals for Milton's city attorney contract, and council members asked questions about rates, experience and availability before agreeing to decide the award at the May 13 meeting.

Anthony Sabatini, owner of the Sabatini Law Firm, said his three-attorney firm practices statewide and emphasized personalized service and availability. "We're a firm you would choose if you really need someone you trust and you could build a personal relationship with," Sabatini said. He quoted an hourly rate of $200 and highlighted land-use experience.

John Adams, representing GrayRobinson, described a larger statewide firm with deep subject-matter resources and a local team that would attend meetings at no travel charge. He summarized GrayRobinson's hourly rates in the proposal packet (shareholder rate $350, associate $295) and said specialists in real estate, utilities and employment law would be available to the city.

Council members asked about familiarity with Naviline (the city's accounting system), minority- or veteran-owned status, double-billing practices and how attorneys would handle meeting attendance. Sabatini said he would take Naviline training if needed and that his firm bills $200 per hour and avoids duplicate billing. Adams said GrayRobinson can provide specialists and would not charge for local meeting travel and that Heather Ramos of the firm has accounting-system familiarity.

The council did not vote during the work session. Staff said both presentations were part of the selection process and reminded members the formal decision will occur at the May 13 regular council meeting after deliberation.