Somerset board directs administration to issue RFP for legal services after close vote

The Somerset School Board voted 4–3 on May 4 to direct the district administrator to prepare and issue a request for proposals for professional legal services and to identify multiple finalist firms for board interviews.

Board members said the move came after differing views about the district’s current legal representation and a desire to hear from other firms. One board member said the RFP would let the board ‘‘see some different opinions and just try something new.’’ Administration said it would lead the process and present a timeline at the next board meeting, with work likely extending into summer.

During discussion, board members asked how finalist firms would be chosen and whether the process would exclude otherwise qualified candidates. Administration said it would vet proposals, use a multi‑tiered process if needed and bring up to several finalists to the board for interviews. A board member emphasized that the administration should ensure parent and community concerns were considered in evaluating candidates.

The motion’s language directs the district administrator to issue a formal RFP to identify and vet multiple qualified finalist firms for presentation to the board for interviews and final consideration. The board conducted a roll‑call vote and the motion passed 4–3.

The board did not take any further action on a replacement attorney at the meeting; administration intends to return with a proposed timeline and next steps at a future session.