Millburn commission hires outside counsel at up to $45,000 cap

The Millburn Township Charter Study Commission voted unanimously Dec. 18 to appoint Michael L. Collins of King Mesh & Collins LLP as the commission’s legal advisor.

The commission approved Resolution 25-004, which authorizes a blended legal rate of $225 per hour and sets a not-to-exceed cap of $45,000 for counsel services. Chair Jerry introduced the resolution and the commission moved and passed it by roll call: Mr. Biller, Dr. Kung, Miss Parker Lent, Mr. Tenner and Mr. Ducker all voted yes.

Commissioners discussed contract negotiation details before the vote. Commissioner Corey asked whether the firm would consider a discounted rate if spending exceeded the cap; commissioners said they would pursue such terms during contract negotiations. Commissioner Joanna noted that a comparable engagement in Red Bank had run to about $34,000, suggesting Millburn’s exposure was likely to be lower.

The commission characterized the vote as an authorization to begin contract negotiations and to secure counsel for the charter study; execution of a formal contract will follow. The commission did not set a specific schedule for contract payments beyond noting the cap; township CFO Matt Lari had requested an estimated total for the 2026 budget.

The commission expects to rely on counsel for guidance on legal limits while conducting interviews and preparing final recommendations; commissioners said they will return to negotiation points such as discounting if negotiations indicate a need to exceed the cap.

The resolution passed by roll call on Dec. 18, 2025. The commission moved on to ongoing interview and outreach work for the study.