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Board appoints special litigation/conflict counsel to represent superintendent and board; some members dissent
Summary
The board approved a professional services appointment for special litigation/conflict counsel (Tuscano Law Firm LLC) to represent the superintendent and the board; two board members voted no and public commenters raised questions about cost and scope.
The board considered agenda item 17 to appoint special litigation/conflict counsel (Tuscano Law Firm LLC) to represent the superintendent and the board. A public commenter earlier asked who the counsel would represent, what the taxpayer cost would be, and who is eligible to vote on the appointment.
Board counsel explained the retainer would be to represent the superintendent and the board to ensure statutory obligations are met and to shield the administration from outside political influence. The board moved the item and, on roll call, the motion passed; Matarazzo and Pascarella recorded “No” votes while other members voted in favor.
A member of the public had earlier told the board the appointment looked unhelpful for constituents and questioned whether the policy on public complaints would limit constituents’ ability to engage with counsel. The board chair said the retainer agreement would be made available if approved.
