The Town of Florence has hired Robert Wingo as its new Town Attorney. On November 4, 2025, the council unanimously approved his three-year contract. Wingo will earn $200,000 annually under a contract effective November 29, with his first working day on December 1.
Council Praises Selection
Councilmember Tony Bencina said the council was “overwhelming in agreement” with the hire. Additionally, he noted Wingo’s experience would help Florence tackle difficult issues. Mayor Keith Eaton also added that Wingo has specialties the town needs.
Town Manager Bruce Walls presented the item. However, Wingo could not attend due to a commitment with his current employer.
Filling a Vacancy
The position opened when Clifford Mattice resigned in September 2025 after 10 years. Mattice left to become Queen Creek’s first in-house Town Attorney at a salary of $230,000. Meanwhile, Florence used interim legal services from Cooper & Rueter during the search.
Wingo’s Background
Wingo served as City Attorney in Surprise since December 2015. Subsequently, the Surprise City Council accepted his resignation in January 2025.
His tenure included a 2024 incident where resident Rebekah Massie was arrested at a council meeting. Massie alleged misconduct and opposed his pay raise. In response, then-Mayor Skip Hall cited a rule against complaints about employees and ordered her to stop. She refused and was removed by police. The city later repealed the rule after a First Amendment lawsuit was filed.
Wingo begins his Florence role on December 1, 2025.
