To the Editorial Leadership of KTBS and Natchitoches Parish Journal,
I am writing in response to your recent story concerning the City of Natchitoches and our grant writer. I do so with disappointment, but also with the expectation that KTBS and the Natchitoches Parish Journal, as a respected regional news organization, values accuracy, fairness, and adherence to basic journalistic standards.
Several assertions made in the story are either factually incorrect or materially misleading, and I believe it is important to correct the public record.
First, regarding the ethics issue: The City of Natchitoches proactively sought an opinion from the Louisiana Board of Ethics in August, well before any ethics investigation was known or anticipated. The question posed was straightforward and appropriate-whether a salaried city grant writer could also be compensated from grant funds for administering a grant, provided such compensation met all applicable legal and ethical guidelines. Seeking clarity from the Board of Ethics is not evidence of wrongdoing; it is evidence of due diligence and responsible governance.
Second, your report suggested that changes to employment status were intended to “shield” the grant writer from council approval. That assertion is simply incorrect. Under the City’s governing structure, only department head positions require council approval—a limited number of positions clearly defined by law. At no point was this individual appointed, proposed, or presented as a department head. Employment decisions for non-department-head positions fall within the mayor’s administrative authority, not council confirmation. To suggest otherwise misrepresents both the law and the facts.
Third, the article states that KTBS and NPJ reached out to the City and council members for comment and that all declined. The Mayor’s Office has no record of any email, phone call, or text message from KTBS or the NPJ requesting comment prior to publication. No opportunity was provided to respond, clarify, or supply context-an omission that falls short of basic standards of balanced reporting.
What is particularly troubling is that these inaccuracies could have been avoided with minimal verification. The City has been transparent, cooperative, and proactive in its operations. We have a documented record of accomplishments, responsible fiscal management, and successful grant activity that continues to benefit the citizens of Natchitoches.
I am requesting that KTBS and NPJ review this matter carefully and issue appropriate corrections or clarifications. At minimum, the public deserves an accurate account of the facts.
I remain willing to speak directly with your newsroom to address any questions and to ensure future coverage reflects the full context and verified information. My expectation is not favorable coverage—but fair and accurate coverage.
Respectfully,
Ronnie Williams, Jr.
Mayor, City of Natchitoches
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