Committee recommends denial of vehicle‑damage claim alleging pothole on 30th Street

William Taylor appealed a denied claim seeking $1,237.99 for damage to his vehicle that he said resulted from striking a pothole on 30th Street. Taylor provided photos of the damaged rim and a video of the scene and told the committee the location is adjacent to city infrastructure operations.

City counsel noted that municipal liability for roadway defects depends on notice: the city is liable for hazards it knew about or had notice of within the statutory timeframe. City staff said there was no record of a prior report or complaint about the defect before Taylor struck it, and Water Works staff said they inspected the area and filled the depressed area around a manhole after being notified.

Committee members discussed city notice and the roadway context. The committee recorded a recommendation of denial and will refer the matter to the full Common Council on June 3, 2025; if the council adopts the denial, Taylor will receive the formal notice required to pursue circuit‑court remedies if he elects to do so.