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carry out in addition to providing support for the attorneys. Therefore, even if the number of attorneys were reduced there still would be ample work for all three legal assistants/secretaries. The remaining question is whether it is feasible to downsize the attorney side of the office. I think the answer is yes with certain qualifications. Historically, every advisory committee meeting is attended by an attorney. These meetings are very time consuming and are a very poor utilization of attorney's time. It is recommended that an attorney be on-call to answer any questions that may arise during the meeting but not be present on a regular basis. There are some exceptions such as Planning & Zoning Board and the Code Enforcement Board. P & Z is in the evening so it doesn't cut into daytime attorney activity. CEB could be handled by a private attorney who would be needed about 5 hours a month, probably at a rate of $40 to $50 per hour. Another time consuming, disruptive activity is responding to the public in general who often just walk into the office looking for information. An appointment only procedure could be implemented. If these activities were lessed out of the attorneys' workload, then it may be feasible to reduce the number of attorneys to two. If this turns out where it doesn't conduce to good attorney service to the Board, committees, and staff, then the Board could look to bring in a part-time attorney, which may be necessary during vacations or illness. 3. ORGANIZATION PLACING OFFICE OF COUNTY ATTORNEY UNDER THE COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR: This type of organization is used very rarely. It creates a question of primary loyalty, i.e., is it to the County Administrator or to the BCC? Further, it removes the BCC from control and selection of attorneys. This type of organization also creates or gives rise to ethical problems for the attorneys. I would strongly recommend against establishing this type of organization. 4. ORGANIZATION - ATTORNEY SERVICES DELIVERED BY PRIVATE ATTORNEYS: This is generally an expensive method of providing attorney service. It can be used only when minimal attorney services are necessary. Further, staff becomes reluctant to seek advice because it causes the meter to run. A growing county the size of Indian River should not revert to this type of organization. 5. EMPLOYMENT PROCEDURES AND PRACTICES: Attorneys must perforce interface and work in close cooperation not only with the Commissioners but with numerous staff members. Logic and orderly administration dictates that there be input into the attorney selection process by staff. Accordingly, I propose that a selection committee, similar to that used now for the selection of architects and other professionals, be formed consisting of the County Administrator, Executive Secretary to the BCC, and an attorney from the Office of the County Attorney. The committee would evaluate all qualified applicants and forward their recommendatians to the Board of County Commissioners for consideration and final selection by the Board of County Commissioners. This would apply to the County Attorney and any Assistant County Attorneys. February 15, 2000 70