TRANSMITTAL LETTER FOR BOARD MEETING OF OCTOBER 3, 2024
COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY
Mr. Brian A. Perkovich, Executive Director
Title.
Authority to settle the Workers’ Compensation Claims of David Rivera vs. MWRDGC, Claim numbers 19WC012880, 19WC012881, and 23WC011864, Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC), in the sum of $52,991.68, Account 901-30000-601090
Body
Dear Sir:
David Rivera is a Maintenance Laborer Class A Shift currently working at the Stickney Water Reclamation Plant. On January 29, 2019, he reported while shoveling snow at the Egan Water Reclamation Plant he strained his lower back. He sought treatment at the Industrial Clinic and was diagnosed with spinal stenosis. He was off work February 4, 2019, and returned to work on February 6, 2019. Mr. Rivera completed physical therapy for this injury.
On April 12, 2019, Mr. Rivera reported while working at the Egan Water Reclamation Plant, he was cleaning up spilled polymer when he slipped and fell backwards landing on the floor. He sought treatment at the Industrial Clinic for injuries to his neck, right shoulder, right wrist, left hip, left knee and his low back. Mr. Rivera was off work April 24, 2019, and returned to work on April 26, 2019.
On December 28, 2022, Mr. Rivera reported that while pushing grit with a rake at the Kirie Water Reclamation Plant, he injured the palm of his right hand. He sought treatment at the Industrial Clinic on January 11, 2023, and was diagnosed with a contusion of the right wrist. He treated conservatively with a brace and physical therapy. After continued problems, Mr. Rivera was diagnosed with Triggering A1 Pulley at Index and Middle fingers of the right hand. He received cortisone injections and ultimately underwent trigger release surgery on April 26, 2023, at which time he was off work. He was able to return to work on May 10, 2023.
Mr. Rivera was paid a total of 2.0 weeks of lost time benefits totaling $2,340.50.
Mr. Rivera 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 now be settled for a total of $52,991.68, representing approximately 8% loss of use of person as a whole for the back injury, approximately 2.33% loss of use for the left leg/hip, and approximately 8.0% loss of use of the right hand. This settlement will close out future lost time, and medical benefits associated with this injury.
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 October 3, 2024