The Oklahoma State Capital

At the end of a late meeting Tuesday night, Guthrie City Manager Bret Jones announced the resignation of City Attorney Brian Pierson, effective September 11th. In an emotional moment Pierson explained in a broken voice the he had seen 7 City Mangers come and go. He stated that during that time there must have been at least that many Councils. "This council stands at the top," he said. Pierson will be accepting a new legal opportunity with an Oklahoma City bank starting in September. Several council members took the occasion to thank Pierson for his service. Ward III Councilor Grant Aguirre said that Pierson had been very helpful in advising and assisting him since he took office. Ward I Councilor Brad Morelli who is also an attorney stated that it is often hard for one attorney not to want to contradict another. Morelli indicated he never felt that way about Pierson. Pierson concluded his remarks by joking, "Be careful, I might just come back and run for one of your seats one of these days." Though Pierson's resignation will take effect on the 11th, he indicated that he could advise the council past that point if necessary. City Manger Jones said that the council should probably retain a new attorney on an as needed basis. Guthrie does not pay for a full time attorney. An attorney is hired on a contract per job basis. Everyone seemed to express satisfaction with this form of legal representation. Efforts are now underway to locate a replacement for Pierson. Names mentioned at the meeting were local attorneys Jeff Hirtzel, Tim Green, and Frank Davis.