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Lorain approves legal retainer for PFAS-related claims; mayor signals possible lead-plaintiff role to aid firefighters
Summary
Council unanimously passed an ordinance authorizing the city to retain multiple law firms to pursue claims tied to PFAS contamination from firefighting foam and gear. Law Director Riley and Mayor Barry Bradley described legal strategy and potential financial implications, including the cost to replace contaminated firefighter gear.
City Council unanimously passed an ordinance authorizing the safety service director to enter into professional services agreements with several law firms to pursue claims related to PFAS contamination that affected fire departments and gear.
Law Director Riley told council there is no immediate cost exposure to the city for engaging the firms and described the mix of possible remedies, including economic recoveries and noneconomic fixes (for example, replacing buildings or gear). Riley said contingency-fee arrangements would be structured so fees would be paid from recoveries, not from city cash on hand.
Mayor Barry Bradley described outreach to national firefighter litigation counsel and said the city is considering participation as a lead plaintiff in related litigation because that role can yield a larger recovery for the municipality and for replacement of contaminated protective gear. Bradley estimated replacing contaminated gear could cost approximately $12,000 per firefighter and said the city wants manufacturers to bear replacement costs.
The ordinance names multiple firms for potential engagement, including (as read into the record) Maguire, LLP; Law Office of Kevin Madonna, PLLC; Douglas & London, P.C.; SL Environmental Law Group, P.C.; Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP; and Levin Papantonio Proctor Buchanan O'Brien Barr & Mogle, P.A. The council vote to authorize the retainer passed unanimously.
