Quartzsite council approves adjusted billing rates for town legal services

The Quartzsite Town Council voted to approve an adjustment to the hourly billing rates charged by Pierce Coleman PLLC for the town's legal services. The council acted after hearing an explanation from the town's contracted attorney that the firm had changed internal rate structures in response to rising costs.

Town attorney Mr. Estes of Pierce Coleman PLLC told the council the firm periodically revises rates because of higher overhead and technology expenses and that the firm offers a flat-fee option tied to historical averages. "We look at what has been the average over the last three to five years…and work that into a flat fee," Estes said, adding that he routinely limits unnecessary travel and in-person attendance to control costs.

Staff noted that the town budgets for services overall rather than by the hour and said current expenditures remain within budget margins for the year. Council members raised a circulating letter that alleged an improper relationship in a prior matter involving a resident named Mike Rock; council and counsel characterized that letter’s assertions as unfounded. "That rumor is going around," staff said; Estes responded that having the same firm or attorney handle both town counsel and prosecution duties is common in municipalities and not inherently a conflict.

Public comment yielded no sustained objections; one council member said publicly they would vote no to reflect citizens’ concerns. The council then adopted the billing-rate adjustment on a voice vote; the clerk called for ayes and noes and the motion carried.

The action changes the hourly billing terms for Pierce Coleman PLLC as the town’s contracted legal services provider. The council did not direct additional follow-up staff work tied to this item; budget effects will be monitored during the normal budget process.