Subject:
Title
Proposed delegation of authority regarding potential outside counsel conflict waiver request.
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Recommended Action:
Recommended Action
Approval of delegation of authority regarding potential outside counsel conflict waiver request.
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Strategic Priorities:
N/A
Summary:
Summary
Pinellas County, through the Purchasing Director’s delegated authority, has retained an attorney (outside counsel) with the law firm of Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick, LLP (the Firm) to provide legal counsel related to a joint project agreement (JPA) with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) related to utility relocation. The firm has locations throughout the State of Florida, as well as within five other states.
As recognized in the Legal Representation of Multiple Clients Policy previously approved by the Board, in certain limited circumstances lawyers may seek and receive waivers of conflicts of interest. Particularly because of the nature of the FDOT, it is conceivable that a situation may arise wherein the Firm will request the County consider waiving a conflict, in accordance with the Florida Bar Rules. Due to scheduling restrictions, it may not be possible to bring such a request to the Board within fifteen (15) days, as requested by the Firm.
As a result, it is recommended that the Board delegate to the Chair the authority to consider, with advice of the County Attorney, and respond to any such waiver request made by the Firm during the course of their representation of the County relating to this JPA.
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Background Information:
The Legal Representation of Multiple Clients Policy was approved by the Board on 10/25/2022, Legistar Number 22-1808A.
Fiscal Impact:
N/A
Staff Member Responsible:
Jewel White, County Attorney
Christy Donovan Pemberton, Managing Assistant County Attorney
Partners:
Pinellas County Utilities
Attachments:
N/A