In a special meeting on March 18, Asheville City Council passed a resolution appointing Robin Tatum Currin as Asheville’s new City Attorney.
Currin comes to Asheville from Raleigh, where she was partner in the law firm Currin and Currin focused on local government issues. As an expert in land use and zoning law, Currin is a frequent speaker on those and other legal issues to local government boards. She has been recognized by for her knowledge of land use and zoning by Chambers USA, Best Lawyers in America and other professional organizations. She attended North Carolina StateUniversity, receiving both her Bachelor of Science and Masters in Education there, and obtained a Juris Doctor degree from North Carolina Central University where she graduated Summa Cum Laude and Valedictorian of her class.
“We are fortunate to have Robin at the wheel in this important position,” said Mayor Esther Manheimer. “Her areas of knowledge and expertise will serve the city well as we rise to new challenges and opportunities.”
Currin’s appointment is effective May 1.
“I am honored by the trust City Council has placed in me,” Currin said. “And I look forward to taking on this responsibility and serving this community with integrity as its new City Attorney.”
The appointment fills the position vacated by Bob Oast in July, 2013 after a 16-year career with the City of Asheville. Since Oast’s departure to teach at Ohio State University, that role has been filled by Interim City Attorney Martha McGlohon.
“Martha’s professionalism has been crucial for this city as we searched for a new City Attorney,” Manheimer said. “I think I can speak for the entire Council when I say thank you to Martha for filling such an indispensable role.”
The City Attorney is one of three positions, alongside the City Manager and City Clerk, that are appointed by City Council and answer directly to that elected body.