Council discusses Kenney & Deason contract renewal, asks for market comparisons

The Mountlake Terrace City Council on Nov. 6 considered a proposed renewal of its professional services agreement with Kenney & Deason to continue providing contract city‑attorney services.

Deputy City Manager Carolyn Hope said the proposed renewal extends the current hourly arrangement for two years and raises the primary rate from about $270 per hour to $315 per hour, citing that the city had not adjusted the rate since 2021. Hope told council the contract model remains more affordable than hiring a full‑time in‑house attorney, which staff estimated would cost substantially more annually.

Hope described benefits of the contract arrangement: managing partner Hillary Evans leads a team that can provide coverage and varied expertise when a single attorney is unavailable. Hope said the firm’s pooled model reduces the risk of missed meetings and provides specialty support when needed.

Several council members expressed concern about approving the increase without recent market comparators. Council member Murray asked for data showing what nearby cities pay and said a competitive solicitation would clarify whether the proposed rate is reasonable. Council member Woodard recalled prior discussions and said she had been comfortable with retaining the firm.

Council members and staff agreed to provide comparable market information and to consider whether to place the renewal on the consent agenda once council has the requested comparators.

Clarifying details provided at the meeting: staff estimated current annual fees for the contract arrangement have ranged between about $200,000 and $241,000 per year in recent years; staff said an in‑house attorney would likely cost closer to $275,000 annually (staff figures reported at the meeting).