This time is was spin, spin, spin by not one, but two, representatives of Gallagher Benefit Services (Gallagher).
Last time it was hand gestures and hair flips.
On Oct. 13 presentation to the Shreveport City Council attempted to explain how/why the city of Shreveport overpaid $30 million plus on employee health insurance premiums since 2011.
At the Nov. 20 council meeting many council members asked the Gallagher twosome many hard questions with little to none credible responses.
But guess what? Suddenly as if by magic, the overpayment by the city was estimated to be “only” $343,000. (Wonder how many streets that sum would overlay?)
Wisely, the council decided to delay any action until further information was obtained from Gallagher.
One can expect a lengthy dialogue at the next council meeting with Gallager, and possibly a special meeting to solely address this issue.
Gallagher has been paid approximately $300,000 a year to consult and advise on the health insurance plan since being hired in 2016.
City attorney Ron Lattier advised the representatives that a possible unjust enrichment claim may be pursed.
THIS ARTICLE WAS PUBLISHED IN THE December 4 ISSUE OF FOCUS SB - THE INQUISITOR.