Board chair Takis Carantones moved on Tuesday to appoint Ryan Samuel as Arlington County attorney, effective Dec. 2, 2025, and asked the board to authorize the chair to execute the employment agreement on the county’s behalf. The motion was seconded by Vice Chair Marta Ferrante and passed with all present voting in favor; one member was absent for personal reasons.

The appointment capped a competitive, months-long search and a multi-step vetting process, Carantones said, that produced numerous qualified applicants. "We had extraordinary luck to receive applications from many applicants who brought to this process really amazing legal talent," Carantones said, and described Samuel as bringing "remarkable dedication to public service" and leadership the board trusts.

Board member Cunningham, who took part in the evaluation, said she had initially leaned toward external candidates but was persuaded by Samuel’s demonstrated independence and legal judgment. Cunningham and other board members praised the appointee’s approach to litigation and emphasis on balancing legal rigor with an understanding of community priorities.

Board member Maureen Coffey said she and another colleague conducted reference checks because of the hire’s importance to the county. Coffey said references emphasized Samuel’s focus on "getting it right" for the county rather than simply "making the other side lose."

After the vote, Ryan Samuel thanked the board. "I'm very honored to be appointed as the county attorney, and I'm extremely grateful for the board's trust," he said, and pledged to "work tirelessly to uphold the law, strengthen good governance, and ensure Arlington continues to thrive."

Chair Carantones confirmed there was no further business and adjourned the special meeting.

Votes at a glance: Motion to appoint Ryan Samuel as county attorney, effective Dec. 2, 2025 — Passed, yes 4, no 0, abstain 0, absent 1 (member Spain).