ACTION REQUESTED:
Title
Communication from the City Manager and Corporation Counsel with a Request to APPROVE a SETTLEMENT of the Litigation Matter JOYNELL STRONG-DOUGLAS V. CITY OF PEORIA, et al. 20-L-0018, in the Amount of $130,000.00.
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BACKGROUND:
On February 17, 2019, a City of Peoria snowplow was operating westbound on Gift Avenue near its intersection with University Street. At the same time and in the same vicinity, Joynell Strong-Douglas was operating her vehicle northbound on University Street. The City snowplow stopped at the intersection before proceeding to turn right onto University Street. The City snowplow struck the side of Ms. Strong-Douglas’ vehicle with its front plow. Ms. Strong-Douglas alleges she suffered personal injuries from the collision and incurred substantial medical bills.
Ms. Strong-Douglas filed a lawsuit against the City in January 2020. The parties have completed written discovery and the depositions of Ms. Strong-Douglas and the City snowplow driver.
The parties have negotiated a settlement wherein the City would tender the amount of $130,000.00 in exchange for a release of all claims.
The Legal Department is recommending the Council approve the settlement.
NEIGHBORHOOD CONCERNS: None.
IMPACT IF APPROVED: The City will settle Ms. Strong-Douglas’ personal injury lawsuit and avoid additional litigation, including the risk of a trial verdict in excess of the proposed settlement.
IMPACT IF DENIED: The City will decline to settle Ms. Strong-Douglas’ personal injury lawsuit and proceed with additional medical treatment provider depositions before a trial.
ALTERNATIVES: N/A
EEO CERTIFICATION NUMBER: N/A
WHICH OF THE GOALS IDENTIFIED IN THE COUNCIL’S 2017 - 2032 STRATEGIC PLAN DOES THIS RECOMMENDATION ADVANCE?
1. Financially Sound City
WHICH CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTOR(S) FROM THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN DOES THIS RECOMMENDATION IMPLEMENT?
1. Have an efficient government.
DEPARTMENT: Legal