At first glance, this seems like a no brainer. The current solicitor Raymond Davis is well liked by the current administration as he does pretty much exactly as he is told. This was a complete change from the previous solicitor, Commissioner Elect Michael Giangrieco, Esq. who, it has been alleged by some, acted as the Fourth Commissioner during the current administration of Kelly, Loomis and Warren.
One prominent member of the Democratic party made the comment that of course they would want to keep Raymond Davis on board, even if he is a Republican. This person also suggested that there may be no good Democratic attorneys in Susquehanna County!
The chances of Raymond Davis agreeing to stay on as solicitor are probably extremely slim to none. One rather significant reason is that although Raymond gets along with almost everyone, there may be a notable exception when it comes to Michael.
As in the previous discussion about the Chief Clerk, one would hope that qualifications would win out over either gender or party affiliation.
Are there any practicing Democratic attorneys in Susquehanna County who would be interested in the position?
The position of solicitor, like the Chief Clerk is one which may not be something most people would want to tackle. Never mind the pay. Generally, it is tough enough to have one boss. How about three!! And what happens, as in the outgoing administration where there is a running battle between two of the three (you pick which two) for virtually the entire time. Neither the solicitor nor the Clerk’s position is something which would appeal to most people.
Anyway, the question remains - will the incoming commissioners prevail on Raymond Davis? Will he agree if they do ask? If not, who?
Let’s hope that they choose wisely. We need a solicitor who knows the Law, understands his or her position - as a county employee, not a quasi commissioner - and can get along with all 3 commissioners, not being intimidated by anyone of them.
Hmmmm! Very thoughtful analysis! But there is indeed one attorney in this county who is a registered Democrat. I think we can all remember her name. After all, she WAS the party’s OTHER standard bearer for commissioner 4 years ago! Now wouldn’t she be an interesting choice for County Solicitor! But honestly, this could be a tall order to find an attorney with the moxie, brains, and wit to serve as County Solicitor for the minimal remuneration at maximum cost to personal reputation - not to mention sanity.
If anyone was paying attention, the current solicitor did/does what Ms. Kelly wanted him to. I don’t think the same sentiments are had by Ms. Warren and Mr. Loomis and I can’t imagine Mr. Giangrieco would encourage Mr. Davis to stay on. I assume Mr. Davis will resign as he’s stated since the election results were released. The gossip on the street and in the court house is the expectation of the new administration to use all that common sense they proclaimed when they campaigned. Appoint a solicitor as well as a few other at-will positions with qualified people. Also been told that Mr. Giangrieco invited that candidate of 4 years ago to challenge Ms. Warren this time around. Could she be his choice for solicitor? How could the majority commissioners disagree with that?
The previous standard bearer for the Party 4 years ago would have been a good choice but for the fact that she retired this year. It is my understanding this person does not possess a current license to practice law - and does not want to.
So, who is the next choice? Full agreement …with minimal renumeration at maximum cost to personal reputation…