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Northampton County Council Appoints New Solicitor, Addresses Budget Shortfall

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. ts-new-solicitor-addresses-budget-shortfall.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Saturday, January 31st 2026 at 6:46 GMT by WFMZ-TV
      Locales: Pennsylvania, UNITED STATES

Easton, PA - January 31st, 2026 - Northampton County Council concluded a pivotal meeting this week, addressing key leadership positions and a pressing budgetary concern. The appointments of Stephen Kaywood as County Solicitor and a resolution to address a shortfall within the County Controller's office signal both a changing of the guard and proactive financial management.

Stephen Kaywood steps into the role of County Solicitor, replacing Laura McHugh, whose tenure saw the county through a period of significant growth and legal challenges. The County Solicitor is a vital position, functioning as the primary legal advisor to the council, interpreting laws, and representing the county in all legal proceedings. This encompasses everything from contract negotiations and land use disputes to potential litigation and regulatory compliance. Kaywood's experience and legal acumen will be immediately tested as Northampton County continues to grapple with ongoing development projects, environmental concerns, and evolving state and federal regulations.

Sources close to the council indicate that Kaywood was selected from a competitive field of candidates. His background, reportedly focusing on municipal law and complex litigation, made him a standout choice. While details of McHugh's departure remain largely undisclosed, it's understood to be a mutually agreed-upon transition, allowing her to pursue other opportunities. Observers suggest that the council sought a solicitor with a strong understanding of Pennsylvania's Home Rule Charter, given the county's unique governing structure. The solicitor will be instrumental in ensuring the county's actions align with both the spirit and the letter of the law.

However, the appointment wasn't the only significant item on the agenda. Simultaneously, the Council approved a resolution authorizing the transfer of funds to the County Controller's office to address a concerning budget shortfall. This action highlights the ongoing financial pressures faced by local governments nationwide, and specifically within Northampton County.

The County Controller, an independently elected official, is responsible for the financial oversight of the county, including auditing, budgeting, and ensuring responsible spending of taxpayer dollars. A shortfall in this office raises questions about potential overspending, unexpected expenses, or inaccuracies in prior budget projections. While details regarding the cause of the deficit are still emerging, the Council acted swiftly to prevent disruption to crucial financial operations. The approved resolution details a transfer of funds from the county's general fund, providing immediate relief to the Controller's office.

"Addressing this shortfall was paramount," stated Council Vice President, John Reynolds, after the meeting. "The Controller's office plays a critical role in maintaining the financial health of our county. Ensuring they have the resources to operate effectively is a core responsibility of the Council."

This transfer isn't a long-term solution, however. The Council is expected to launch a thorough review of the County Controller's budget and financial practices. This review will likely involve an independent audit to identify the root causes of the shortfall and implement measures to prevent similar situations in the future. There is speculation about potential factors contributing to the deficit, including increased costs related to the county's expanding social services programs and rising pension obligations. The Council has also indicated it will explore opportunities for increased revenue generation and more efficient allocation of resources.

The combined actions of appointing a new solicitor and addressing the Controller's budget shortfall underscore a period of transition and adjustment for Northampton County. The Council is navigating the challenges of maintaining fiscal responsibility while simultaneously supporting essential services and managing growth. The coming months will be crucial as Kaywood assumes his new role and the Council undertakes a comprehensive review of the county's financial health. The public will be watching closely to see how these developments shape the future of Northampton County.