by David Chapman
Staff Writer
Mayor-elect Alvin Brown has reappointed Cindy Laquidara as general counsel through Sept. 30, the end of the City’s fiscal year.
After that, Laquidara, the first woman to serve as general counsel, moves to the Foley & Lardner firm in Jacksonville. She accepted a position to begin Oct. 1.
Her reappointment is subject to City Council approval. The three-month appointment allows Brown more time to select a new general counsel.
Laquidara said she respects the Council process and refrained from comment until the approval.
“I certainly enjoy representing elected officials,” she said. “It’s a fascinating position. Elected officials have so much on their plates and there are complex legal issues that emerge.”
Laquidara served as an assistant general counsel from 1985-87, leaving for private practice, and returned in 1998, becoming general counsel last year when Rick Mullaney left the position to run for mayor.
Mayor John Peyton appointed her to the post in May 2010 and she was unanimously approved by City Council in July.
“Cindy Laquidara is an outstanding attorney and dedicated public servant who serves our community with distinction,” Brown said in a statement.
“Her continued presence there will allow the office to continue to offer the best legal support possible for Jacksonville’s government agencies,” he said.
Kevin Hyde, Foley & Lardner practice managing partner and a Council member, said Laquidara would serve in many of the areas she currently undertakes at the City level, including state and federal litigation, class action lawsuits and commercial transactions.
“We’re ecstatic about it,” said Hyde. “Both on a personal and professional level, I’m excited she’ll be joining us.”
Hyde said Laquidara’s expertise is respected in the legal community.
“She’ll be reunited with people she’s practiced with in the past,” he said. “It’s a great thing for our clients and Foley & Lardner.”
356-2466