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Ottawa County approves Zimmer settlement for $8,018,500 and an additional reduced-fee settlement
Summary
The board approved an $8,018,500 settlement and release of certain closed-session material in Zimmer v. Ottawa County and separately approved a $21,000 settlement in Hill Sander v. Ottawa County after debate about litigation costs and transparency.
The Ottawa County Board of Commissioners voted to accept a settlement in Zimmer v. Ottawa County that would release the December 10, 2024 closed-session minutes and audio and provide the plaintiff $8,018,500, with dismissal of the case. Chair John read the settlement terms aloud to the board, noting counsel's recommendation and that further litigation could cost more in counsel's assessment.
Not all commissioners supported the settlement. One commissioner said they "oppose the settlement in this matter" and would rather litigate, arguing that closed sessions are protected and that settling sets an unfavorable precedent. Supporters said settling would stop ongoing legal costs. The roll-call vote recorded seven in favor and four opposed.
Separately, the board accepted a settlement in Hill Sander v. Ottawa County for a reduced fee of $21,000 after discussion and an amendment to clarify the acceptance language. Commissioners again split on principle and cost; proponents noted the savings of litigation costs and the opportunity to close multiple active matters. The Hill Sander motion passed by roll-call vote (Yes: 7; No: 4).
Commissioners debated the broader implications of releasing closed-session material and whether settling fosters transparency or rewards litigation. Legal counsel’s written opinion and the risk/cost trade-offs factored into the majority votes to accept the settlements.
