Board authorizes new counsel for public information requests and grievances, keeps Walsh Gallegos for other matters
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Summary
After debate, Granbury ISD trustees voted to engage attorney Lisa Crass (trial retainer) to handle public information requests and grievances while retaining Walsh Gallegos for remaining legal matters.
The Granbury ISD Board of Trustees on Tuesday authorized a new attorney retainer limited to public information requests and grievances, and retained existing counsel for other legal matters, trustees said.
Superintendent Dr. Courtney Morawski recommended the district sign a retainer with attorney Lisa Crass, citing lower retainer and hourly rates and regional accessibility. Trustees discussed options ranging from fully transitioning legal services to piloting the new counsel for specific matters.
Trustee Bolton initially moved to transition all district legal work to the new firm, with outstanding matters remaining with Walsh Gallegos; that motion failed on a board vote. The board instead approved a narrower approach. Trustee Townsend moved to assign public information requests (PIRs) and grievances to Lisa Crass and keep Walsh Gallegos for other matters. Trustee Alana seconded that motion; trustees voted seven-zero in favor.
During discussion trustees emphasized a trial period, noting the new retainer includes no fee for the first year, and said they would monitor performance before making broader changes. Board members also discussed cost concerns, the district’s recent legal expenses for PIRs and grievances, and the value of retaining continuity for ongoing matters currently handled by Walsh Gallegos.
The vote authorizes the superintendent to sign the retainer with Lisa Crass limited to PIRs and grievance work and retain Walsh Gallegos for the district’s remaining legal needs.
The board rejected an amendment to also name Lisa Crass as board counsel; that amendment failed and was not adopted.
