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Council discusses hiring in-house village attorney; staff estimates $275,000 annual package
Summary
Staff proposed converting contracted legal services to an in-house Village Attorney plus legal assistant, estimated at roughly $275,000, to improve responsiveness and reduce dependence on outside counsel during litigation or time-sensitive matters.
Village staff proposed creating an in-house Village Attorney position with an accompanying legal assistant to increase access to counsel and reduce delays caused by outside firm availability.
Gregory D. Martin said the move would be an "investment, not a savings," but would improve responsiveness: with a full-time attorney available the Village could reduce delays when legal questions arise rather than awaiting outside counsel. Staff estimated the combined package would cost approximately $275,000 per year and noted the position would be appointed, similar to the village administrator or chief positions.
Councilors raised questions about scope and the continued need for specialty outside counsel for discrete matters; staff recommended retaining some contracting capacity for specialized litigation while using the in-house attorney for routine and timely legal support. Council deferred final approval to the Thursday session to allow further review.
