Them That's Got: Leggett Crony Update

Thanks again to Washington Examiner report Brian Hughes for keeping us up to date on the latest example of how our tax dollars are spent.

Leggett appointee maintains active legal firm

Subin picks up six-figure paycheck from MontCo

A political ally of Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett found the time to handle nearly 90 cases for his private law firm while collecting almost $160,000 annually in salary and benefits to head a commission that formally meets four times a year, records show.

Although Leggett's office is spending $158,464 on former County Councilman Michael Subin's compensation, which Leggett said reflects a heavy workload, the Rockville lawyer maintained a steady stream of legal cases since being appointed to the county post four years ago. As director of the Criminal Justice Coordinating Commission, Subin is tasked with "coordinating communication" among law enforcement agencies.


But now Leggett is recommending a full-time job for Subin ?-- and roughly $195,000 in total compensation -- raising questions from some officials about how Subin can maintain a law firm while potentially collecting an even more lucrative salary.

And:

"It would be better if the county executive would show some leadership by spelling out a vision for what he wants this commission to accomplish and then assign the job to someone within his branch to carry it out," said Councilman Hans Riemer, D-at large. "I don't see a compelling argument."

A council panel, including Council President Valerie Ervin, signed off on expanding Subin's role to include zoning and planning hearings. However, approval from the full council remains in question.

"Rather than applaud us for saving money, there's people with an ax to grind with him," Leggett said.

Read the full story at the Washington Examiner here.