The Yuma County Board of Supervisors has authorized the retention of outside legal counsel in response to the potential for legal action by Treasurer David Alexandre following an investigation into the use of public funds within the Treasurer’s office.

During today’s meeting, Board Chairman Martin Porchas emphasized that when concerns are raised about the use of public funds, the County has a responsibility to review those concerns and take appropriate action.

“In this instance, the County conducted a review in coordination with the County Attorney’s Office which identified several issues that required corrective action,” Porchas said. “Those actions were promptly addressed by County Administration.”

Chairman Porchas further explained that the Treasurer has disagreed with those findings and has sought independent legal representation, creating a conflict for the County Attorney’s Office. As a result, the County Attorney’s Office appointed outside counsel, Snell & Wilmer, to represent the County.

“The Board’s role is to authorize the associated costs, which is the purpose of this item,” Porchas said.

The Board emphasized that retaining outside counsel under these circumstances is a standard and appropriate action to ensure the County’s interests are properly represented.

“Retaining qualified outside counsel in situations like this helps protect the County from greater legal and financial risk,” the Chairman said.

Yuma County remains committed to responsible stewardship of public resources, which falls under the values of responsiveness, accountability and trust per the County’s 2025-29 Strategic Plan.

“The County remains firmly committed to protecting taxpayer dollars and ensuring all public funds are managed responsibly and in accordance with County policy and state law,” Porchas added.

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