DEPARTMENT: City Attorney’s Office
DEPARTMENT HEAD: Andrew Segovia
COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: City Wide
SUBJECT:
Settlement of Sharlene Lewis, et al vs. City of San Antonio, et al
SUMMARY:
This item authorizes the settlement of a lawsuit styled Sharlene Lewis, et. al. v. City of San Antonio, et al.; Civil Action No.: 5:16-CV-1014 in the U.S. District Court, Western District of Texas - San Antonio Division in the amount of $200,000.00 paid from the Self-Insurance Liability Fund.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
Plaintiff Sharlene Lewis is seeking damages as a result of a motor vehicle accident that occurred on April 18, 2015 at the intersection of East Houston St. and North Hackberry St. in San Antonio involving a City vehicle and a vehicle in which the daughter of Sharlene Lewis was a passenger.
The parties have reached a mutual agreement to settle the claims of Sharlene Lewis for the amount of $200,000.00 payable from the Self-Insurance Liability Fund.
ISSUE:
Settlements over $50,000 require City Council approval.
ALTERNATIVES:
If this settlement is not approved by the City Council, this case will proceed to a jury trial. It is in the best interest of the City to settle this matter to avoid the uncertainties and risks associated with litigation in a case of disputed damages.
FISCAL IMPACT:
If approved, $200,000.00 will be paid to Sharlene Lewis and her attorney of record, Thomas J. Henry. This will be funded in accordance with the Adopted FY 2017 Liability Fund Budget.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of this Ordinance.