Following the resignation of staff attorney Todd Starr on Sept. 21, the Archuleta County Board of County Commissioners unanimously decided Tuesday afternoon to continue to use Starr as the county’s attorney, though on a contract basis.
Starr resigned from his full-time post at the county to join a Texas law firm as a partner, with the firm now called Rose, Walker, Starr LLP. Starr will work out of the firm’s Pagosa Springs office.
Starr’s last day with the county as a staff member is Oct. 21.
“I’m glad that we get to keep him,” said Commissioner Clifford Lucero during Tuesday’s meeting.
According to the new agreement in place, the firm will represent the county in “general legal matters as requested by the board from time to time.”
The agreement further states the county will pay a $6,000 retainer each month for fees (not reimbursement of other expenses), with the firm providing up to 20 hours of legal work. In months where the county requires more than 20 hours, the county will be billed $300 per hour.
The agreement can be severed by either party at any time.
During the meeting, Archuleta County Administrator Bentley Henderson noted that the 20 hours per month would include Starr’s attendance at regular meetings and work sessions, and will allow staff to interact with him regarding specific questions and issues, though Commissioner Steve Wadley later stated that the board would no longer have the luxury of having Starr at meetings and work sessions.
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