File #: 24-772    Name: Goldfarb Lipman Conflict of Interest Report
Type: General Agenda Item Status: Passed
File created: 11/20/2024 In control: Board of Supervisors
On agenda: 12/3/2024 Final action: 12/3/2024
Title: Approve the proposed conflict-of-interest waiver in relation to Goldfarb and Lipman’s proposed representation of Interim, Inc. in their development of the proposed Marina Kai 23-unit supportive housing facility.
Attachments: 1. Board Report, 2. Attachment A - Waiver Request, 3. Completed Board Order Item No. 86
Title

Approve the proposed conflict-of-interest waiver in relation to Goldfarb and Lipman’s proposed representation of Interim, Inc. in their development of the proposed Marina Kai 23-unit supportive housing facility.

Body

RECOMMENDATION:

It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors approve the proposed conflict-of-interest waiver in relation to Goldfarb and Lipman’s proposed representation of Interim, Inc. in their effort to redevelop their Shelter Cove project into a permanent supportive housing facility.

SUMMARY:

The County has retained the law firm of Goldfarb and Lipman (G&L) for many years to provide specialized outside counsel to support the County housing programs. Goldfarb and Lipman have notified the County that they will be working with Interim, Inc.as counsel for the Marina Kai Supportive Housing project. This may create a potential conflict-of-interest for G&L because the County has an interest in the Interim, Inc.’s Shelter Cove site, which Interim, Inc. is proposing to redevelop as the 23-unit Marina Kai Supportive Housing Facility. Staff have reviewed the disclosure letter submitted by G&L and recommend that the Board of Supervisors approve the conflict-of-interest waiver and authorize the Chair to sign the waiver.

DISCUSSION:

Goldfarb and Lipman provide specialized outside legal counsel supporting the County’s housing programs for at least 20 years. In this capacity they have provided guidance on drafting amendments to the Inclusionary Housing Ordinance and drafting documents for County housing finance activities, including grant and loan agreements, and regulatory agreements.

In June 1996, Interim, Inc. acquired a 2.24-acre parcel on the former Fort Ord and within the boundaries of Marina. The property was conveyed for use as transitional housing. Interim, Inc. has subsequently developed the site into Shelter Cove, which includes 35-transitional housing beds and treatment space. The County provided a $100,000 loan to Inter...

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