Payson Development News

Payson Council Debates In-House vs. Contract Legal Services, Approves Bond Refinancing Direction

The town council discussed the structure of legal services, specifically the potential for hiring an in-house town attorney versus continuing with contracted services. Pierce Coleman, the current contracted firm, presented their case for continuing the contract, highlighting their extensive experience, specialized expertise, cost-effectiveness compared to an in-house attorney, and accessibility. Councilmembers debated the merits of each model, with some favoring the vested community interest and immediate accessibility of an in-house attorney, while others emphasized the objectivity, specialized expertise, and cost predictability of the current contract model. Ultimately, the council voted 7-0 to direct town staff to prepare financing terms with Stiefel Public Finance for a $20 million bond issue to refinance the town's PSPRS debt, indicating a preference for pursuing the bond option over direct lending. The discussion also touched upon the potential need for public vote on such debt, though legal counsel clarified statutory limitations.