Putnam County Executive: I Cannot Fire the County Attorney
Opinion Advocates for ideas and draws conclusions based on the author/producer’s interpretation of facts and data.
As we begin 2025, I want to address a matter that has sparked significant attention in Putnam County government, on social media and through inaccurate press reports. This misinformation has caused confusion, and I aim to set the record straight.
Let me be clear: I did not, and cannot, fire the county legislature’s counsel. Under the county charter, this decision falls solely to the county attorney and the legislature. The current contract dispute is between them, not me.
My role as county executive does not include authority over this contract. Legal service contracts fall under the county attorney’s purview. As the sole legal advisor for the county, including the legislature, the county attorney must manage these agreements with approval from the legislature.
The county attorney allowed the legislature’s legal services contract to expire per its terms at the end of 2024 to resolve disputes and clarify responsibilities. A new Request for Proposal (RFP) has been issued to ensure transparency and accountability moving forward. The attorney who had the contract to provide these legal services is, of course, welcome to submit a proposal, as are all qualified parties.
Unfortunately, some have misrepresented this situation, suggesting I directed this decision. I did not. The county attorney’s office has addressed this issue independently from me and my office.
Again, I did not, and cannot, fire the legislature’s counsel.
My administration remains focused on transparency and delivering results for Putnam County. Despite these distractions, I will continue working to serve our residents and build a stronger future for all.
Kevin Byrne
Putnam County Executive
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