After executive session, Seward County declines $6,540 legal fee for treasurer matter

The Seward County Board of Commissioners discussed an invoice for $6,540 in legal fees tied to a county treasurer matter after a brief executive session and ultimately voted to deny payment.

The board entered a 15‑minute executive session for attorney–client consultation under KSA 75‑4319(b)(2). On reconvening, Commissioner Stanton asked counsel on the phone for details of the June 24 invoice; the attorney (on the phone) said the time billed included preparation for interviews and employee meetings and that he had not billed for certain media appearances. The attorney also said he had reviewed an op‑ed for legal risk and generally charges governments at a reduced rate, sometimes billing 80–85% of time spent on substantive projects.

Taking legal counsel's advice, one commissioner moved that the county not pay the $6,540 invoice; the motion was seconded and carried with four in favor and one opposed. Commissioners noted they would pursue judicial review/appeal where appropriate and that the issue will reappear on the next Monday's agenda for follow‑up.