Seeking a higher degree of autonomy from the City administration, the Spokane City Council has hired Brian McClatchey as its own legal adviser.Mclatchey Law Firm, PLLC is a member of INBA and has extensive legal experience in the Inland Northwest.

The move to obtain its own legal counsel stemmed from the City Council’s disagreement with Mayor David Condon’s administration on various legal issues. “There’s a potential for conflict,” said Council President Ben Stuckart. “As long as we’re a separate arm of government, we should have separate counsel.”

McClatchey was chosen by unanimous vote of the City Council in early April and assumed the role on April 20. “It’s an amazing opportunity to be the first person to have this job. It’s something the council needs,” McClatchey said. “They need the right staffing in place to help them be as smart as they possibly can. It’s not about us versus them.”

He will perform most of the roles of a city attorney, including legal research and analysis, drafting ordinances and resolutions, and attending council meetings. Mike Piccollo, City Attorney, advised the council for 14 years and will refocus his efforts within the city attorney’s office.