WRWC names Holland & Hart as legal counsel; attorney says scope unchanged, PFAS expertise available

The Western Regional Water Commission on April 16 authorized Holland & Hart LLP to serve as WRWC legal counsel, replacing the prior firm; the commission voted unanimously to approve a standard engagement letter presented in the board packet.

Kim Rigdon, WRWC staff, told commissioners the firm change happened quickly in January and the board had deferred making a longer-term decision while legislative work was underway. "The scope of services have not changed, and Holland and Hart has committed to, no cost adjustment as well," Rigdon said. The board packet included a draft engagement letter and scope of work that staff said mirrored the prior engagement.

Attorney Lucas Folletta (spelled in the packet), who said he transitioned to Holland & Hart effective March 31, reviewed the engagement. "It is not a negative reflection on my former firm at all, but I am interested in exploring additional resources that are available at Holland & Hart, particularly in the natural resource space," Folletta told the commission. He said he would remain principal counsel on WRWC matters and that the firm’s expertise could be useful for topics such as PFAS regulation and monitoring.

Susan Sievert of the Sun Valley General Improvement District spoke during public comment to endorse Holland & Hart, saying the firm had provided helpful legislative guidance in prior sessions.

Alexis Hill moved to authorize Holland & Hart as WRWC counsel and Member Andriola seconded; commissioners voted "aye" and the motion passed unanimously.

Rigdon and Folletta said staff and counsel will work to finalize any proposed amendment to the scope if the board directs adding PFAS regulatory or monitoring support. No fee increases were reported in the engagement letter presented at the meeting.