Forest Heights appoints Jason Deloach as town attorney at $215 hourly rate

Forest Heights — The mayor and council voted on Oct. 6 to appoint Jason Deloach as the town attorney and approved an engagement letter that establishes a $215 hourly rate and monthly billing for expenses.

Jason Deloach introduced himself to the council and said he looks forward to working with Forest Heights. "I bring a wealth of experience to the table," Deloach said, noting he represents multiple municipalities and will be the town's primary attorney.

Council members asked for clarification about the engagement letter and whether the hourly rate or retainer terms included changes for emergency work. Deloach said his engagement letter does list an hourly rate and that in more than two decades of municipal practice he has not raised rates for emergency assignments and that the firm will provide standard terms and conditions. Mayor Lilly confirmed to the council that the established town billing rate will be $215 per hour and that expenses such as copying and other incidentals will be billed as incurred.

The council approved Resolution 52-25 by roll call: six yeses and one recorded abstention (Council member Brownson). Council member McDonald asked whether Deloach would be available for both regular meeting dates (first Monday and third Wednesday), and Deloach said he had no conflicts and would attend.

Deloach said he works with a municipal practice group and will be the primary attorney for Forest Heights while collaborating with other attorneys in his firm as needed.

Next steps: The engagement letter will be executed and the town attorney will advise on pending items, including the National View easement; council members asked for staff and counsel to review outstanding exhibits and return recommended revisions.