Outside attorney hired

The Chico City Council has approved a contract to hire a City of Industry-based law firm for legal services previously provided by an in-house attorney. That attorney, Lori Barker, is retiring April 11. The council made the decision during its regular meeting Tuesday, April 1, contracting with Alvarez-Glasman & Colvin, with attorney Vince Ewing (pictured) named city attorney. There will also be an assistant attorney and a deputy city attorney.

Mayor Scott Gruendl said any one of them will be in Chico an average of two days a week. Meanwhile, the city will retain an in-house paralegal position. City Manager Brian Nakamura told the council that today’s technology includes “communication tools that almost make it appear like the individual is right here in city hall.”

The city will pay the firm a retainer of $25,000 per month, or 170 hours a month at $150 per hour. Barker alone was paid $263,000 per year, including benefits. The contract eliminates the other in-house attorney post and its associated costs. Councilwoman Ann Schwab cast lone dissenting vote.