PUD signs new lawyers
CBC Crescent Bar Chronicle News
EPHRATA – The Grant County PUD has hired the Spokane legal firm of Paine Hamblen to represent the utility in its fight against a lawsuit by home owners on Crescent Bar Island.
With the suit filed in January, the home owners are attempting to avoid eviction from their homes next spring. Their leases with the PUD, via Crescent Bar Inc. and Port of Quincy sub-leases, end at that time.
The merits of the case, before Federal Judge Justin Quackenbush in Spokane, are yet to be argued. The case has been slowed by Quackenbush's workload and legal maneuverings.
The latest legal maneuver, by attorneys for the plaintiffs, led to Quackenbush disqualifying the entire PUD defense team.
According to PUD spokeswoman Sarah Morford, the PUD has signed a contract with Paine Hamblen for not more than $300,000.
“Paine Hamblen was chosen for its excellent reputation and strong experience in utility law,” Morford said.