IMMEDIATE ADOPTION
Number
250290
Version
ORIGINAL
Reference
Sponsor
CHAIR
Title
Resolution authorizing the City Attorney to hire outside counsel for litigation related to public grants.
Analysis
This resolution permits the City Attorney to retain outside counsel for litigation related to public grants at no cost to the City of Milwaukee, and to enter into such litigation.
Body
Whereas, Section 304-23 of the Milwaukee Code of Ordinances allows the Common Council to authorize retention of a law firm outside of the City Attorney’s permanent staff, pursuant to a written agreement; and
Whereas, The Public Rights Project’s mission is to empower state, local, and tribal governments to protect and further civil rights, economic justice, and environmental protection by litigating in state and federal courts; and
Whereas, The Public Rights Project represents cities across the country, including Midwestern cities; and
Whereas, The plaintiffs represented by the Public Rights Project have recently received favorable rulings related to public grants; and
Whereas, The decision to enter litigation often necessitates a quick turnaround, which may not permit the revolution of a full Common Council legislative cycle; and
Whereas, The Public Rights Project is offering its services pro bono, limiting the City’s financial obligation; and
Whereas, Other pro bono law firms offer similar services, and are currently providing their clients with similar results; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, By the Common Council of the City of Milwaukee, that the City Attorney is authorized to enter into an agreement with the Public Rights Project or similar pro bono law firm for litigation services related to public grants at no cost to the City of Milwaukee, and to enter into such litigation; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the City Attorney shall provide a regular report to the Judiciary and Legislation Committee related to relevant lawsuits to which the City has become a party.
Requestor
Office of the City Attorney
Drafter
Andrea Fowler
5/30/2025