DEPARTMENT: City Attorney’s Office
DEPARTMENT HEAD: Andrew Segovia
COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: City Wide
SUBJECT:
Settlement of a lawsuit styled Cynthia Harris v. City of San Antonio
SUMMARY:
This item authorizes the settlement of a lawsuit styled Cynthia Harris v. City of San Antonio; Cause Number 2016-CI-01863, pending in 288th Judicial District Court, Bexar County, Texas in the amount of $130,000.00 paid from the Self-Insurance Liability Fund.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
Cynthia Harris is seeking damages as a result of a fall that occurred on April 22, 2014 in the elevator lobby at the city-owned parking garage at the corner of St. Mary’s Street and Travis Street in San Antonio.
The parties have reached a mutual agreement to settle these claims including payment to Ms. Harris in the amount of $130,000.00, 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, $130,000.00 will be paid to Cynthia Harris and her attorney of record. This will be funded in accordance with the FY 2018 Liability Fund Adopted Budget.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of this item.