The  City of Fishers has renewed a contract with attorney Jennifer Messer to provide legal services through calendar year 2018.  The contract, approved by the Fishers Board of Public Works and Safety Monday, calls for a retainer payment to Ms. Messer of $20,000 per month, similar to the contract the city had with the attorney in 2017.

She is required to submit monthly invoices for services rendered to the city.  Her responsibilities under the pact include consulting with city officials, handling the legal side of economic development and providing real estate services.  You can read the entire contract at this link.

Associated Press reporter Brian Slodysko published a story in May of 2017, questioning the amount paid to Ms. Messer.  Her husband, Luke Messer, is a candidate for the United States Senate in the Republican May 8th primary election.

Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness strongly defended the use of Ms. Messer, arguing the arrangement actually saves the city money in the long run for such legal work.

The Board of Works action also approved contracts with Barnes & Thornburg for bond counsel matters and Krieg Devault for Planning & Zoning matters.