The Haslet Community and Economic Development Corporation unanimously accepted the resignation of its attorney and voted to retain a new law firm at its Nov. 5 special meeting.

Jeremy Page’s resignation email was read into the record by the HCEDC chair; Page wrote, “Please allow this email to serve as my letter of resignation as the attorney of the Hazlitt Community and Economic Development Corporation.” The board moved to accept the resignation, citing a perceived conflict of interest in having the same attorney serve both the city and the EDC, and approved acceptance by a 4-0 vote.

The board then considered contracting with Taylor Olsen, Adkins, Sarah & Elam LLP — referred to in the meeting as “Toast.” Elizabeth Elverton, who said she would be the EDC’s primary contact, told the board the firm would make partners and other attorneys available as needed. Elverton said, “Very excited about the ability for our firm to come back to Haslett after a short break of a couple of years,” and described the firm’s municipal and economic-development experience.

Staff and Elverton explained contract terms to the board: the new engagement carries hourly rates roughly 10% above the prior contract signed in February 2024, and there is no standing monthly fee — the EDC will be billed only for services it requests. Elverton said the firm “serves at the pleasure of the EDC,” describing termination as possible by board vote with the firm only invoicing for outstanding amounts and no penalty fee.

A board member asked whether rates include an annual escalation; Elverton said partner review governs rate changes and there was no guaranteed annual increase. The board moved, seconded and voted 4-0 to retain Taylor Olsen et al.

The actions taken were limited to accepting the attorney’s resignation and engaging the new firm; the board did not go into executive session.

Votes at a glance
Accepted resignation of Brown and Hoffmeister LLP (outgoing counsel): motion to accept carried, vote 4-0.
Contract with Taylor Olsen, Adkins, Sarah & Elam LLP for legal services: motion to hire carried, vote 4-0.

(Documentation: resignation email from Jeremy Page and the firm’s letter of engagement were entered into the record during the meeting.)