More funds were approved Wednesday by the Reno City Council for an investigation into alleged misconduct by former City Manager Andrew Clinger, bringing the total approved cost to $225,000.
The additional $75,000 will go to the Kamer Zucker Abbott law firm in Las Vegas and to retired district judge David Wall, both of whom are researching the matter. Money is coming from the city’s risk management fund.
Kamer Zucker Abbott charges between $210 to $550 per hour for attorney time and $85 to $125 per hour for paralegal time.
The outside counsel is investigating complaints against Clinger that were filed by three women employed by the city. Clinger has denied allegations.
An initial investigation by the city attorney’s office found no wrongdoing. However, an attorney representing the women claimed the investigation was botched, which City Attorney Karl Hall denies.
Excess funds were approved in a 4-2 vote. Councilman David Bobzien was absent and Mayor Hillary Schieve and Councilwoman Neoma Jardon opposed, citing exorbitant fees and this being the third time the council has been asked for funds.
“I feel it’s ‘Groundhog Day,’” Jardon said. “I need more assurance that this is it.”
Hall said Wall has billed the city $14,000 in excess of his allotted $50,000 and that Kamer Zucker Abbott has billed in excess of its originally-approved $100,000.
“We’re almost to the end of this investigation,” Hall told council members. “I think it would be appropriate to follow through with that initial decision made to do a complete investigation and to get to the end of that investigation.”
Hall said he spoke with the outside counsel and an almost 100-page report is almost done and will be reviewed in the next week or two prior to being presented to council members.
Clinger took a voluntary leave of absence in August and resigned in October with agreement he wouldn’t sue the city.
