Summerfield hires new town attorney amid challenges

Summerfield officials announced Monday they will appoint James Hoffman as its new town attorney.

The hire comes amid internal and external challenges including the renewed threat of de-annexation of more than 900 acres of land by the state general assembly. Hoffman assumes the role following the recent resignation of Bob Hornik.

According to a news release, Hoffman has practiced law for private firms and as corporate counsel. He's also previously served as a city attorney in Virginia as well as in Greensboro. The Town Council unanimously approved extending a contract at a special meeting in late March.

The town of Summerfield has been facing its own headwinds recently. The Council voted to hire a public relations firm in February after state Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger again signaled his support for de-annexation in connection to a controversial development proposal.

The Greensboro NAACP also filed a complaint in February alleging Summerfield's zoning practices were discriminatory.

That same month, the Town Council voted against renewing Town Manager Scott Whitaker's contract.