Cocke County commissioners amend county attorney renewal to two years after public concerns

Cocke County commissioners voted 11–3 to approve a two‑year amendment to a proposed renewal for the county attorney firm Owen, Wilson & Cole after residents urged shorter contract terms and the county attorney described the firm’s billing and retainer arrangements.

Public commenters opened the evening by urging shorter contract terms and easier ways to contact commissioners. "We as constituents the only way we have to reach our commissioners is by phone or email sometimes," said Roxanne Spizzirri, who suggested adding a direct link on the Cocke County website to allow residents to give input on agenda items. Several other speakers, including Sid Mason and a resident identified as Mr. Martin, told commissioners a four‑year contract would "hamstring the next administration" and asked for one‑ or two‑year terms.

During the board discussion and the county attorney's report, the county attorney (identified in the transcript as Mr. Shelton) defended the retainer arrangement and described the firm’s recent billings. He said the month‑to‑month value of services at an hourly rate over the last 12 months would have totaled about $182,000, while the county paid $50,000 in retainer fees. "So, the county received $132,000 bonus from Owens Wilson and Cole for the last 12 months," he said, characterizing the retainer as a cost‑effective arrangement that excludes litigation, which is billed separately.

Commissioners debated the appropriate term. One commissioner said the attorney has represented the county well and argued for continuity during ongoing litigation; another, Andy Ford, said the county historically used year‑to‑year arrangements and favored shorter terms. A motion to amend the renewal to a two‑year contract was moved (mover not specified in the transcript) and seconded by Mr. Hudson. Roll-call voting recorded the following: Andy Ford—No; Bill Miller—Yes; Gail Blazer—Yes; Jason McMahon—Yes; Norman Smith—Yes; Tracy Stapp—Yes; Jonathan Tamplin—Yes; Karen Chambers—Yes; Dan Broaddus—No; Wilma Ball—No; Rick Vasser—Yes; David Beardall—Yes; Tim Wyman—Yes; Billy Hudson—Yes. The amendment passed 11 to 3.

The board proceeded to other agenda items after the vote. The transcript contains no subsequent formal action reversing or extending the contract beyond the two‑year amendment approved by the commissioners.