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Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Ind. Gov't. - Still more on "Trustee spend $20,000 to defend $758 decision"
Updating these ILB entries from March 25 and March 29, 2010, Heather Gillers of the Indianapolis Star reports today:
Washington Township was correct in denying a local woman $758 in poverty aid, a judge ruled Tuesday in a case that raised some eyebrows because the township spent about $20,000 to defend the denial.But for Township Trustee Frank Short, it was less about money and more about principle. He believes the expense was justified. * * *
The case -- which came at a time when lawmakers and others were questioning whether townships are effective stewards of public funds -- drew attention because of the sum that Washington Township spent fighting it. Short said the amount troubled him as well.
"I wish it didn't cost so much to defend her false claim," his statement said, "and I am working with the township's attorneys to hold down these costs in the future should another false claim be filed."
Short said Washington Township cannot recover legal fees from Cooper.
Posted by Marcia Oddi on April 21, 2010 09:46 AM
Posted to Indiana Government