Title
Vote to approve annual Legal Contract for DSS Child Welfare and Adult Services
Abstract
Action Requested: Motion to approve contract for Department of Social Services for Fiscal Year 2024
Introduction & Background: An RFP was issued in May 2023 for DSS legal services, and one proposal was received from the firm currently contracted for DSS legal services, Stephenson & Fleming, LLP. The RFP was posted through the NC Interactive Purchasing System website, the County website, and published in The Chatham News and Record newspaper. No other inquiries were made by other firms. Included in the DSS budget request is a rate increase of $10 per hour for FY 24. There has been no rate increase in the legal contract since before 2009.
Discussion & Analysis: Angenette Stephenson has represented DSS since 2016 and she and her law partner, Deanna Fleming are two of only 25 Board Certified Child Welfare Specialists in NC. Stephenson and Fleming meet all requirements outlined in the RFP.
How does this relate to the Comprehensive Plan: NA
Budgetary Impact: Legal expenses are included in the recommended DSS budget and there is no change needed.
Recommendation: Motion to approve the FY 24 contract for Stephenson & Fleming.