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Members debate litigation, attorney roles and a bid to stop lawsuits
Summary
Members discussed longstanding litigation involving board members and attorneys; the board reported a 4–2 vote to end suits and attempted to dismiss counsel but said court discovery and counsel actions kept cases active and raised concerns about conflicts of interest.
Members raised persistent frustration about several lawsuits involving current and former board members, the cost of legal fees and the continuing involvement of attorneys tied to those disputes.
The Chair recounted the board's efforts to stop litigation: he said the board voted "4 to 2" to end the lawsuit and to dismiss counsel but that further attempts to formally terminate representation were hampered by procedural issues and ongoing court discovery, which a judge extended until November. The transcript identifies key attorneys referenced in the discussion: Ted Hong (described in the meeting as plaintiff counsel for Jim Petty), Gary Nakamoto (defense counsel for certain board members) and Glenn Horio (previously retained). Members questioned whether retaining counsel with ties to existing litigation creates ethical conflicts.
Several members expressed concern that continuing to pay certain attorneys perpetuates legal costs. The board said it instructed staff and counsel to attempt mediation and dismissal, but the cases remained active at the time of the meeting pending court action and further legal steps. The board encouraged members who believe professional conduct rules were breached to consider filing complaints with the Office of Disciplinary Counsel.
