Debate Continues Over DA's Independence

A Morganelli predecessor

On Wednesday, I put most of you to sleep with a very lengthy post that balances an important public interest in an independent District Attorney against the public interests in a professional staff, transparency and fiscal accountability. That's what's going on in District Attorney John Morganelli's mandamus action against Executive John Stoffa. Facially, it might seem trivial. But these are important considerations. A DA needs to be insulated from other branches of government. But the people, through County Council, also have a legitimate interest in determining how the office is funded.

Yesterday, County Solicitor Danny Spengler answered Morganelli's Complaint, and included what lawyers call a "New Matter" that will require a response from the DA. Unfortunately, I don't have it at this point.

But I do have a well-written memo from Council Solicitor Phil Lauer to Council. I pretty much share his view.

This lawsuit could have been avoided had Lamont McClure's Legal Judicial Committee been conducting meetings to review the Home Rule Charter. For over three years, he has failed to schedule a single meeting.

Are DA Promotions Subject to Review by Council?