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CONSIDERATION OF A RECOMMENDATION FROM THE CITY ATTORNEY THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE A SETTLEMENT OF JOSEPHINE OHLSEN VS. THE CITY OF NORMAN, OKLAHOMA, IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF CLEVELAND COUNTY CASE CJ-2019-1506 IN THE AMOUNT OF $85,000.
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BACKGROUND: This case was brought by Josephine Ohlsen to recover damages alleged to have occurred as a result of a personal injury. On July 23, 2020, Ms. Ohlsen indicated that she will settle her claim for $85,000. Because this matter involves pending litigation, the merits of this case were discussed during executive session held on July 21, 2020. The settlement offer is within the range discussed with Council in Executive Session.
RECOMMENDATION: It is believed the proposed settlement is fair, reasonable and in the best interest of the City. It is recommended the settlement of this matter be approved by City Council and that this office be directed to reduce the settlement amount to judgment in accordance with 51 O.S. §159, and 62 O.S. §362. The settlement amount will then be placed on the property tax rolls for collection over the next three years. Under this process, one- third of the judgment amount plus interest at the statutory rate on the unpaid balance is collected through property tax roll assessments over that time period. This statutorily allowed procedure for payment of judgments against a municipality will minimize the impact of the settlement on the City’s Water Reclamation Fund, Sewer Maintenance Fund and General Fund.