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Resident alleges conflict in town’s hiring of outside counsel; solicitor says no conflict
Summary
A resident told the council that hiring outside counsel to pursue Quonset‑related work presents a conflict of interest; the town solicitor and manager responded that no conflict was found and that counsel's prior experience was an asset.
Mary Shaw told the council she believes re‑engaging an attorney who previously worked in related matters presents a conflict of interest for North Kingstown residents.
"Hiring of Marissa DuSautel is a conflict of interest for the residents of North Kingstown," Shaw said, recounting prior contact she had with the attorney and asserting the town’s decision could protect town officials over residents. She asked the council to reconsider the engagement.
Town Solicitor (in executive‑session follow‑up remarks to the council chamber) said his review found no attorney‑client relationship that would create a conflict in the present retention. He told council members he had spoken with the lawyer involved and, based on those conversations, "from our perspective ... there is no conflict." The manager and solicitor said they would follow up if new information were provided.
Council members noted the attorney had prior environmental‑law experience working for state agencies, which the solicitor said is precisely the reason she was recommended to assist the town. No formal motion to replace counsel was made during the meeting.
