KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Both the city of Kalamazoo and Kalamazoo County Commissions are pursuing new legal representation.
The County has been at it for two years, finally choosing Angelina Barnes to be Board Counsel.
She said that she had never worked for a County Commission before but has done other government work. She asked the board how they feel about remote working.
“I have been working from home since the Pandemic. I do live in Dewitt. I don’t have any intentions of moving. It’s (Kalamazoo) an hour and twenty-five minutes away,” said Barnes who was the last candidate standing after two other finalists withdrew.
The vote was 7 to 4 and an employment contract is in negotiation. Administrator Kevin Catlin estimates it will save about $100,000 annually to have their own in-house legal counsel, rather than contract the work out.
The City of Kalamazoo is just beginning their search for their next attorney because long time City Attorney Clyde Robinson is retiring.
Deputy City Manager Jeff Chamberlain says they plan to meet with their Executive Headhunters at their next regular meeting to talk about the kind of lawyer they want. He said also that they want to hear from the public as well.
“We’re just asking people what are your preferred character traits and experiences and qualities for a city attorney. On the city’s webpage, there will be a link to a brief survey.”
Robinson has agreed to stay on until his replacement is available.
The survey for the new city of Kalamazoo attorney can be found online at https://www.kalamazoocity.org/Home
reporting by: John McNeill
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