DEPARTMENT: City Attorney’s Office
DEPARTMENT HEAD: Andrew Segovia
COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: City Wide
SUBJECT:
Settlement of James Lawson v. City of San Antonio
SUMMARY:
This item authorizes the settlement of a lawsuit styled James Lawson v. City of San Antonio; Civil Action Number SA-15-CV-0559-DAE pending in the United States District Court, Western District of Texas, San Antonio Division in the amount of $85,000.00 paid from the Self-Insurance Liability Fund.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
James Lawson filed a lawsuit against the City under the Americans with Disabilities Act alleging accessibility violations at the Alamodome.
The parties have reached a mutual agreement to settle these claims including payment to Mr. Lawson in the amount of $85,000.00, subject to City Council Approval. This amount would be paid 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, $85,000.00 will be paid to Schwartz Roller & Zwilling. This will be funded in accordance with the FY 2017 Liability Fund Adopted Budget.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of this Ordinance.