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Rowan County Board of Education hires Bowling Green law firm as board attorney
Summary
At a March 4 special meeting the Rowan County Board of Education voted to hire a Bowling Green firm, ELPO Law, as its primary board attorney; the board discussed interview options, hourly rates, and service expectations before approving the contract by roll call.
The Rowan County Board of Education voted unanimously March 4 to hire ELPO Law, a Bowling Green firm, as the district—s board attorney.
Board members discussed whether to hold live interviews for six proposals the district received and reviewed, then moved to hire ELPO Law without conducting formal interviews. A roll-call vote was taken and the motion passed, with board members present voting in favor.
The discussion focused on three topics: candidate experience with school law, availability for time-sensitive advice, and hourly billing rates. Mr. Rowe, the district superintendent, told the board he wanted "somebody that's well rehearsed in school law" and stressed that timely responsiveness was important: he said he needed counsel who would answer or return calls the same day when urgent decisions arise. Several board members said they prioritized proven experience representing school districts and special-education expertise.
Board members compared fee schedules submitted with proposals. The Bowling Green firm—s proposal listed partner rates at $275 per hour, associate rates at $210 to $250 and paralegal rates at $135. Another proposal from Mount Sterling listed a flat $200 per hour for attorneys, and the Chenoweth proposal listed $150 per hour for attorneys and $75 for paralegals. Board members noted cost is one factor but said quality, references and district-specific experience could offset higher hourly rates.
A board member noted the request for proposals (RFP) asked evaluators to rate candidates on five categories: experience and qualifications, expertise, references, cost and billing, and commitment to service. The board also discussed that any interviews would have to be held in open session and that a hiring decision could be finalized at a regular meeting after additional public notice if interviews were scheduled.
The approved engagement includes a termination provision noted during discussion: the firm—s draft agreement allows the board to terminate the contract without cause with at least 90 days—notice. Board members also said ongoing cases handled by the district—s current attorneys would continue through their completion and that the district could retain specialists for particular matters as needed.
Board members agreed a superintendent—attorney working relationship was critical; one member said the chosen counsel must be accessible when principals or the superintendent need legal guidance. The board directed staff to notify the selected firm the morning after the vote and to follow up with contract finalization through the district office.
Votes at a glance: Motion to hire ELPO Law (Bowling Green) as board attorney — Mover: Board member (name not specified); second: Brenda, board member — Roll-call vote: yes (Ms. Sharp, Brenda and two other board members present), outcome: approved.
