TRANSMITTAL LETTER FOR BOARD MEETING OF AUGUST 13, 2026
COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY
Mr. John P. Murray, Executive Director
Title
Authority to settle the Workers’ Compensation Claim of Joseph Barrett vs. MWRDGC, Claim number 25WC002859, Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC), in the sum of $72,067.93 Account 901-30000-601090
Body
Dear Sir:
Joseph Barrett is an Operating Engineer II at the Stickney Water Reclamation Plant. On January 13, 2025, Mr. Barrett was an Operating Engineer I, when he reported straining his right shoulder while working on an overhead chain valve that would not open. He sought treatment with his doctor on January 29, 2025.
Mr. Barrett had an MRI that revealed a full thickness rotator cuff tear with SLAP lesion. He had shoulder surgery on April 4, 2025, and was taken off work at that time. He returned to work on September 3, 2025.
Mr. Barrett was paid a total of 21.8 weeks of lost time benefits totaling $41,208.31.
Mr. Barrett 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 $72,067.93, representing approximately 13.78% loss of a person as a whole. This settlement will close out any future lost time and medical benefits associated with this injury.
The Acting 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, James E. Fisher, Acting Director of Human Resources, JEF:BLW:DMG
Disposition of this agenda item will be documented in the official Regular Board Meeting Minutes of the Board of Commissioners for August 13, 2026