TRANSMITTAL LETTER FOR BOARD MEETING OF MARCH 19, 2026
COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY
Mr. John P. Murray, Executive Director
Title
Authority to settle the Workers’ Compensation Claim of Keith Zirbes vs. MWRDGC, Claim number 19WC034845 Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC), in the sum of $30,886.36, Account 901-30000-601090
Body
Dear Sir:
Keith Zirbes was a Truck Driver at the Egan Water Reclamation Plant. He retired from the District effective May 1, 2022. On January 22, 2019, Mr. Zirbes reported that while he was exiting a District vehicle, he slipped on ice and struck his left elbow on the truck door frame.
On January 22, 2019, he sought treatment from his doctor who diagnosed him with a displaced nonunion fracture of the left elbow with secondary osteoarthritis. Mr. Zirbes had surgery for left Cubital Tunnel Release on July 25, 2019, and was off work at that time. He was able to return to work on August 8, 2019.
Mr. Zirbes was paid 2.0 weeks of lost time benefits totaling $1,962.30.
Mr. Zirbes filed an Application of Adjustment of Claim with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC) through his counsel. Subject to the approval of the IWCC, this case can be settled for $30,886.36 representing approximately 15% loss of an arm. This settlement will close out any future lost time benefits.
The Director of Human Resources believes this settlement is in the best interest of the District and requests payment of that sum be approved and he be authorized to execute such documents as may be necessary to effect the settlement.
Requested, Thaddeus J. Kosowski, Director of Human Resources, TJK:BLW:DMG
Disposition of this agenda item will be documented in the official Regular Board Meeting Minutes of the Board of Commissioners for March 19, 2026