Bradenton Beach Commission Begins Search for Interim City Attorney
The Bradenton Beach City Commission has initiated its search for an interim city attorney following the resignation of longtime counsel Ricinda Perry on September 18.
During the October 2 meeting, land-use attorney Robert Lincoln, who has been temporarily assisting the city since Perry’s departure, informed commissioners that he could not continue in an interim capacity due to other professional obligations. He encouraged the commission to move thoughtfully in selecting a temporary replacement while also preparing a formal request for proposals for a permanent appointment.
Lincoln presented two experienced municipal attorneys for consideration: Erica Augello, who currently serves as city attorney for Holmes Beach and is a member of the Trask Daigneault law firm, and Regina Kardash, who has represented several coastal municipalities, including Indian Shores, Belleair Shore, and Tarpon Springs.
Commissioners discussed both candidates, noting that Trask Daigneault already handles legal matters for Bradenton Beach through the Florida League of Cities, offering familiarity with ongoing issues. Some members favored working with a firm capable of providing broader legal coverage and additional staff support. Others emphasized the importance of confirming who within the firm would serve as the city’s lead attorney to avoid potential conflicts of interest with neighboring municipalities.
The commission agreed to hold a workshop on October 7 to meet with both Augello and Kardash before making a decision. A formal vote on an interim appointment is scheduled for October 16.
Until an interim attorney is appointed, Lincoln will continue to assist the city with land-use matters and advise the planning and zoning board.
