The response to a public records request to the Town of Grambling reveals that Shreveport attorney Ron Lattier has been paid a monthly retainer of $6,500 since April of last year. Lattier received two retainer checks in April 2023 and one each through August 2024.
The request was for "documents showing all payments to Attorney Ron Lattier from Jan. 1, 2023, through Sept. 30, 2024." The response to the request was dated Nov. 4, 2024. At this time, it is unknown if the response was correct, i.e. if Lattier received $6500 for the month of Sept. 2024--or thereafter.
The total paid to Lattier was $117.000. All of the payments were lump sums of $6,500.
Public bodies in Louisiana are not necessarily prohibited from compensating attorneys with a monthly flat fee. However, it is incumbent upon a public body to ensure it receives at least the equivalent value in exchange for the funds it is spending to be in compliance with the state Constitution.
A follow up public records request has been sent to the Town of Grambling today. Upon receipt of the requested information a follow up article will be posted.