Local Government

Manley Burke has extensive experience solving problems involving local governments, governmental institutions and the decision-making process of governmental entities. Our clients include major U.S. cities, rural villages, high growth townships, counties and various other units of local government, as well as developers, local public interest groups and individuals.

Our attorneys currently serve as Law Directors of the Villages of Evendale, Lockland, Moscow and Woodlawn, Ohio. We maintain ongoing relationships with numerous villages, townships and cities across Ohio and are frequently called upon to handle their civil law matters. We have assisted them with issues involving urban redevelopment, Brownfield site reclamation, annexation and other problems.

We have worked with local and regional governmental bodies in developing zoning codes, ordinances and other regulatory devices to effect the direction and type of growth in affected areas. Our attorneys have authored entire zoning codes, conducted analyses of current zoning regulations, and have recommended solutions to solve specific land use related problems, including ocean front development, environmental quality control, planned unit development, disaster recovery and trip reduction devices for compliance with Federal Air Quality laws.

We have represented a variety of governmental units (including school districts, local libraries and housing organizations) in civil matters dealing with federal regulation, civil rights, contracts, public finance and employment. We also have extensive experience in eminent domain in Ohio and across the country.

Our firm has worked extensively with developers, individuals and neighborhood groups to solve problems related to development. This work includes preserving farmland, introducing desirable residential uses, opposing sexually oriented businesses, growth management, and scenic river preservation. We have represented both large organizations as well as private landowners. No matter who our clients are, we make sure that they have a voice in issues of local concern.

Our lawyers have the experience and creativity to solve the myriad problems presented by the complex and multifaceted interaction between local governments and the surrounding community.