TRANSMITTAL LETTER FOR BOARD MEETING OF FEBRUARY 4, 2016
COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY
Mr. David St. Pierre, Executive Director
Title
Authority to settle the lawsuit of Yussef Ihmoud v. Metropolitan Water Reclamation District and George Bee in the amount of $19,900.00, Case No. 2013 L 009422
Body
Dear Sir:
On August 30, 2012, Yussef Ihmoud was driving a motorcycle on the 3200 block of West Peterson Avenue in Chicago, Illinois when he collided with a District vehicle driven by George Bee, an Engineering Technician V. As a result of the collision, Mr. Ihmoud fell from his motorcycle to the pavement. Although emergency services were called to the scene, both Mr. Ihmoud and Mr. Bee declined assistance. However, Mr. Ihmoud went to the Swedish Covenant Hospital on September 1, 2012 where he was treated and released. Mr. Ihmoud received follow-up care from his family doctor and other medical professionals.
Mr. Ihmoud retained counsel and filed a lawsuit in September of 2013 in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Law Division, seeking $90,000 in damages.
To date, the Law Department has vigorously defended the lawsuit. The written discovery process has been completed, during which the Law Department obtained dismissal of one of the Plaintiff’s claims for recovery, and also participated in oral discovery. Additionally, the Law Department retained an expert to provide consultation and testimony, if necessary, regarding the injury claimed by Mr. Ihmoud.
At this time, given the high cost of expert discovery and the uncertainty inherent in taking the matter to trial, the General Counsel believes that settlement is in the District’s best interest. After extensive negotiation, Mr. Ihmoud has agreed to settle this matter for $19,900.00.
Therefore, the General Counsel respectfully requests that the Board of Commissioners approve the settlement of Yussef Ihmoud v. Metropolitan Water Reclamation District and George Bee in the total amount of $19,900.00. Additionally, the General Counsel requests authority to execute such documents as may be necessary to effectuate this settlement.
Requested, Ronald M. Hill, General Counsel, RMH:LLD:JJZ:YAT:crb
Respectfully Submitted, Mariyana T. Spyropoulos, Chairman Committee on Judiciary
Disposition of this agenda item will be documented in the official Regular Board Meeting Minutes of the Board of Commissioners for February 4, 2016