Attorney Client Privilege or Attorney Milking the ol Cow

Last year, our board entered into a law suit with a home owner over use of an easement area. Our board has gone through an election cycle and now is in disagreement over worth or necessity of the law suit. The costs are leaping up every month. Most homeowners are only slightly aware of the lawsuit and are not aware of the expense but questions have begun to arise. Most informed are outraged. I am the new treasurer on the board since January. Recently I have had inquiries from homeowners directed to me as to the amount spent on the lawsuit. I have the numbers but have been advised by the attorney that "This information is subject to the attorney client privilege in my opinion and is not subject to disclosure". I have read up a little on the ACP and do not find a direct issue. I am skeptical of this attorney's judgment and motives.

Does this inquiry cross into attorney client privilege?

How can a board continue to spend large amounts of money - way out of budget - without informing the homeowners?

What is the balance between board "executive spending" and informing the owners?

What is my responsibility as treasurer to full fill my duty?

Thanks

I'd stop the lawsuit process. It's a waste of time and money. Besides it's much cheaper to have pursued a lien or counter sued.

The membership should be aware of where their money is going. They may not need to know all the details of the case. They could be brought in as witnesses if they do. I would limit the lawyer's contact information because you do NOT want any members calling him. It costs money to call, email, or discuss a case. A nosy owner leaves a message representing the HOA, and the HOA is charged.

Stop the bleeding now if possible. There are other ways of dealing with this issue that are much better and don't require attorneys. Read the CC&R's and see what those options are.