Newton Twp. Auditor Questions Solicitor's Bill

[Sal]

At the April Newton Township meeting, Wilber Waltz, Auditor, questioned the solicitor Joseph Sileo’s bill for $7,600.81 for March.  The solicitor is not an employee and he bills by the hour.

Mr. Sileo said that there was a lot of extra work that needed to be done and “we’re in the business like everyone else to make money” he also said that he has been with the township for many years and that he gives the township a discount rate and that he notes things that he does without charge.

After the meeting, Mr. Walts said that the Newton solicitor is paid as much as the salary for the solicitor of the city of Scranton.

[Robin]

I think its the best way for a solicitor that he is offering his services at cheap rates that all the people in township can afford.Because people have no more money to pay the solicitors and other legal person due to lack of income and savings.

[Sal]

His sales pitch is, my regular rate is this but I’ll give you my lower rate.  Many lawyers use that  line with variations.    

The solicitor rates are not cheap and he knows how to make money from the Township.  

If his job were put out for bid, the lawyers would be tripping over each other to get his pay and with a little effort, the township could probably get a competent lawyer for less.

I have watched him for years and he’s clearly not the brightest star and I find his refusal to give the elected Auditors free complete access to the books and records to be disgraceful and questionable.