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Commission advances first reading of charter amendment to let board hire independent legal adviser
Summary
On first reading, commissioners advanced a charter amendment to allow the Shelby County Board of Commissioners to appoint or hire an attorney to serve as legislative counsel; debate centered on removal authority, independence, and the presence of county attorney staff at meetings.
Commissioners advanced, on first reading, a proposal to amend the county charter so the board can appoint or hire its own attorney to advise the commission on legislative matters. The substitute language was amended on the floor to require that removal occur by resolution of the commission rather than at the unilateral discretion of the chair.
Sponsor Commissioner Eric Sugarman said the change is intended to give the elected board independent access to legal advice. Commissioner Edmond Ford urged that dismissal remain a decision of the commission by resolution rather than a single officer. Ford cited a prior vote on the question that failed by one vote in 2024 and asked colleagues to allow voters to decide in a future referendum if they wish.
Representatives of the county attorney's office said their attendance at meetings is discretionary and that staff remain available to answer questions; the county attorney's office said it would continue to serve clients and would return to "normal operation" when meeting conditions permit. The item passed first reading and will return for second reading.
