Board approves Saxon & Stump solicitor agreement following merger

The South Middleton School District board on March 17 approved a solicitor agreement reflecting the merger of the district—s prior solicitor firm into Saxon & Stump, voting 5-2 with two absent.

Administration explained the change is procedural following Stockton Leader—s merger into Saxon & Stump. The agreement covers the remainder of the 2024-25 year and extends through the 2025-26 academic year (effective April 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026). Officials said rates for the remainder of the current academic year remain the same and that new rates effective July 1 would vary by category, with example increases discussed in the presentation (roughly 3.9% to 4.65% depending on service category).

Several board members said they wanted more information about the acquiring firm and noted that a merger can change staff or service arrangements. Administration said the district has had responsive interactions with the solicitor and that some of the same staff will be retained in the new arrangement.

During discussion a board member asked whether the agreement is a new contract or merely a name change and whether the district should issue a request for proposals; administration replied that yearly agreements are common but the board could choose a broader solicitation process if it preferred.

Roll call on the motion recorded 5 yes, 2 no, 2 absent and the motion passed. The agreement is effective April 1, 2025 and runs through June 30, 2026.

Administration indicated it would continue to monitor the arrangement and noted that the facilities and legal teams remain available to answer further questions.