REPORT TO SUCCESSOR AGENCY
To:Honorable Chair and Members of the Successor Agency
From:Jason Simpson, Executive Director
Prepared by:Barbara Leibold, Agency Counsel
Date:October 22, 2024
Subject:Legal Services Agreement with Leibold McClendon & Mann PC for Legal Services to the Successor Agency
Recommendation
Approve and authorize the Executive Director to execute the Legal Services Agreement with Leibold McClendon & Mann PC for ongoing legal services to the Successor Agency in such final form as approved by the Executive Director.
Background
Leibold McClendon & Mann PC (LMM) served as General Counsel to the former Redevelopment Agency of the City of Lake Elsinore from July 1, 1997, until the Agency was dissolved on January 31, 2012, pursuant to Assembly Bill 1x 26, as amended by AB 1484. Since dissolution, LMM has provided legal services to the Successor Agency of the Redevelopment Agency of the City of Lake Elsinore.
Discussion
LMM routinely represents the Successor Agency in matters before the Riverside Countywide Oversight Board and the California Department of Finance. In connection with its review of the Successor Agency’s Amended ROPS 24-25B, the Department of Finance requested that the Agreement for legal services to the Successor Agency be documented in a separate standalone agreement distinct from LMM’s Legal Services Agreement in its capacity as City Attorney.
Legal Services Agreement - LMM
The purpose of the proposed Agreement is to continue the relationship with LMM as Agency Counsel. The scope of services includes all matters relating to the Recognized Obligations Payment Schedule (ROPS), implementation of enforceable obligations (including the Summerly DDA and Stadium agreements), and real property transactions. LMM has provided excellent services to the Agency and has successfully defended the Agency’s interests against Department of Finance challenges. LMM possesses the expertise and institutional knowledge necessary to serve the best interests of the Successor Agency.
Fiscal Impact
Funds for these services to the Successor Agency are paid with RPTTF allocated for enforceable obligations through the ROPS process.
Attachments
Attachment 1 - Agreement
City Attorney’s Office