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Resident warns of multimillion-dollar liability; commissioners aim to clarify maintenance in lease
Summary
A public commenter warned that jury verdicts for severe incidents can reach $13–20 million, urging the town to limit taxpayer exposure; commissioners agreed to ensure interior/exterior maintenance responsibilities are clearly reflected in the amended lease or memo.
During public comment, a resident (speaker 8) said typical verdicts for catastrophic injuries can reach into the tens of millions and urged commissioners to ensure the town is not exposed if OCC users lack adequate insurance. The commenter asked that the lease explicitly state whether interior and exterior maintenance responsibilities rest with the OCC or the town.
"Average verdicts are 13 to $20,000,000," the commenter said, expressing concern about taxpayer exposure if a lessee’s insurance does not provide sufficient coverage. Commissioners and staff agreed to review maintenance language in the 1980 lease and reflect any necessary clarifications in the forthcoming memo or draft amendment. The Chair noted the town would also schedule periodic insurance-coverage reviews on a multi-year cycle to align with town procurement timelines.
The meeting ended with direction to staff to draft the proposed language and return with an agenda item for formal consideration rather than taking action in the workshop.
