SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Approve settlement of workers' compensation claims 19000114 and 21000021 for payment of $120,000 to Jesse Myers, inclusive of attorney fees and costs with a general release of all claims, and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
Body
SUMMARY:
Jesse Myers was employed as a police officer with the Clearwater Police Department since April 30, 2007 and was approved for a job-connected disability pension on March 10, 2022.
The 2019 claim relates to a neck injury with subsequent surgery. Claims paid to date total $108,519 for medical, indemnity and legal fees. A second surgery may be required because symptoms continue, which would cost approximately $87,500 including post-op medication, physical therapy, and potential indemnity.
The 2021 claims relate to an arrhythmia condition. Claims paid to date total $49,395 for medical, indemnity and legal fees. An ablation procedure to correct the condition would cost approximately $20,000-$30,000. There would be no further medical costs if the first ablation is successful, but first ablations are not always successful.
This settlement was negotiated by the City’s outside legal counsel for workers’ compensation claims, Mark Hungate with Banker, Lopez, Gassler P.A., and is recommended by the City’s claims committee, subject to City Council approval.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
5907590-545800 Insurance Claims - Workers’ Compensation
USE OF RESERVE FUNDS:
N/A