WATSONVILLE—Watsonville City Attorney Alan Smith, who has held the position for 25 years, has announced his retirement and plans to work through December, City Manager Matt Huffaker confirmed Friday.
Smith, who is part of Grunsky Law Firm, began working for the city in December 1995.
“Alan has been a joy to work with,” Huffaker said. “He has served the city for almost three decades, through good times and bad I’ve always appreciated his wisdom and counsel in my five years here and he’ll leave big shoes to fill.”
In addition to his role as city attorney, Smith has served as general counsel for Central Fire Protection District, and has been a member of the Watsonville Rotary Club.
The city released a request for proposal for a new law firm to fill the vacancy during the week of April 11, and will close it in early May, Huffaker said.
Selecting a new firm, negotiating a contract and bringing the new hire up to speed will take a few months, he said.
As part of its duties, the City Council hires the city manager, city attorney and city clerk.
“Ultimately the city council will be making the final decision as to who they want to hire and what firm they want to hire going forward to rep the city in that capacity,” Huffaker said.
Attempts to reach Smith Friday afternoon were unsuccessful.
This story will be updated.
