Anthony Savastano, counsel for the Town of Dartmouth, will be paid $25 more per hour after a vote by the Select Board in favor of the move at a meeting on Monday, August 19.

Savastano asked to change his rates from $175 to $200 per hour, in line with the fees he charges other municipal clients, the attorney told the board.

He noted that he has been employed as Town Counsel since 2005 and has asked for one pay increase since then — more than seven years ago.

Last year, Savastano said, the town recovered more than $79,000 in court judgments. “So I actually netted money for the town last year,” he stated. 

“As a town we do a good job of avoiding [legal] issues,” noted board member David Tatelbaum.

He added that it’s “a pleasure to work with” Savastano before casting his vote in favor of the motion, which passed unanimously.

At the same meeting, three temporary alcohol licenses were granted for upcoming fundraisers, and the next town election was set for April 7, 2020. 

“It’s going to be a great year,” joked chair Stanley Mickelson. “Can I sign up now?”