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Residents challenge county hire of law firm and use of developer funds
Summary
Speakers at the Leavenworth County meeting questioned why money tied to the data-center project was used to hire outside counsel, arguing the firm’s connections to data-center development create an appearance of conflict.
Residents pressed commissioners to explain the county’s decision to hire outside counsel with data-center experience and asked how Cloverleaf funds were used.
Several speakers said the $450,000 contribution from Cloverleaf was intended to pay for independent studies and accused the county of using the money to retain a firm they described as 'pro–data-center.' Tammy Patton asked, "Do you not find it interesting that the 2 commissioners up there that are advocating for the data center are the same ones that helped pick this law firm?"
County counsel responded that outside counsel has a legal obligation to disclose conflicts and that the attorneys can be disbarred if they fail to do so. Counsel also said that the developer voluntarily agreed to fund some studies upfront and that the county is seeking experienced representation to advise on regulations and likely challenges. The commission did not vote to rescind the hire during the meeting.
