With little fanfare and barely an announcement from the Mayor, Acting City Attorney David Kendig was named City Attorney for Tustin. Kendig replaces veteran attorney Douglas Holland who was city attorney for the past 6 years. Holland resigned from the position to focus on his other client, Palm Springs. We previously placed a call with Holland to discuss his abrupt resignation. He has not returned that call.

David Kendig also works in the city’s contract law office, Woodruff, Spradlin & Smart. He is, in fact, listed on their website as Tustin’s “Assistant City Attorney”. Kendig is also the general counsel for Chino Hills Fire District, Assistant General Counsel for OCFA and the City Attorney for Rancho Santa Margarita.Kendig has experience with public agencies in Northern California prior to joining his current firm.

While putting contract services out for bid would be the norm, we are glad to see that the city council will continue their relationship with the firm that has been providing the city with legal services since 1995. Lawyers are one service that should be built on personal relationships with the staff and council. Hopefully, Kendig will remain on board for a few years. Congratulations, David, and good luck. With this council, you may need it.