FISHERS, Ind. -- The mayor of Fishers took to Facebook on Friday to respond to a report by the Associated Press that called out the city for paying an Indiana Congressman’s wife $20,000 per month for legal work.
Mayor Scott Fadness said he is “disappointed” with the tone of the Associated Press article and that Jennifer Messer has helped him transform Fishers from a town into a city.
He also defended Messer’s pay by saying she receives less than $200 per hour for her work, which he said is substantially less than the city would be paying a firm for the same projects.
“She is responsible for drafting and negotiating a majority of the economic deals that are conducted on behalf of the city,” said Fadness.
The AP report, which was released on Thursday, said Jennifer Messer is paid $240,000 a year for her legal work with the city, which she completes mostly from her home in the Washington area.
RELATED | Fishers pays Congressman Messer's wife $20K per month
The Associated Press said that while the agreement doesn’t break any rules, it could create an “awkward situation” for her husband, Luke Messer, whose election pledge was to “stop reckless spending.” Luke Messer has also announced plans to challenge democratic Sen. Joe Donnelly next year.
“Jennifer is smart, capable and professional,” said Fadness. “My goal is to always build the best team for my city with the best experience and expertise.”
