Milwaukee City Council approves claims settlements totaling $71,000 for three injured employees

In a recent meeting of the City of Milwaukee's Judiciary and Legislation Committee, several resolutions were passed that will have direct financial implications for the city and its residents. The committee convened on July 7, 2025, to address claims related to injuries sustained by city employees and damages caused by city infrastructure failures.

One of the key resolutions involved a $25,000 settlement for Omar Garcia, a city employee injured by an uninsured motorist while on duty. This claim was reviewed by outside counsel, and the city attorney's office recommended its adoption, which was approved without objections. Similarly, another resolution authorized a $25,000 payment to DBM Phillips, who faced a comparable situation involving injuries from an uninsured motorist while working.

Additionally, the committee addressed a claim from Leo Gonzales, who sought $21,000 for damages caused by a sewer backup at his residence. Investigations revealed that prior repairs by the Department of Public Works were ineffective, leading to the flooding. The city attorney's office confirmed the validity of Gonzales's claim, and the committee moved to adopt the resolution for payment.

The meeting also included discussions on other claims and resolutions, including a hold on a claim from Charles Weserby Jr. and a resolution regarding the selection of engraving consultants in compliance with a settlement agreement.

As the committee concluded its session, it prepared to enter a closed session to discuss potential litigation matters with the city attorney. The outcomes of these discussions will be crucial for addressing ongoing legal challenges and ensuring the city’s responsibilities are met effectively.

These resolutions highlight the city's commitment to addressing claims from its employees and residents, reflecting the ongoing challenges related to uninsured motorists and infrastructure maintenance. The decisions made in this meeting will directly impact the city's financial management and its ability to support those affected by such incidents.