SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Approve settlement of workers’ compensation claim 19000138 for payment of $325,000 inclusive of attorney fees and costs for Scott Fowler with a general release of all claims and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
Body
SUMMARY:
Mr. Fowler was an active duty police officer with the Clearwater Police Department as of 12/16/2002. On November 17, 2019, he sustained a cardiac event which resulted in his inability to fully return to work, and thus he was relegated to his current light duty work during his rehabilitation and treatment.
The City has spent approximately $110,000 for his treatment and disability to-date. The City faces potential future payments of $150,000 to $200,000 for treatment of his condition and complications which could arise. His remaining lifetime disability payments could reach $830,000 to $1.3 million as a result of his current condition. As a result, based on his life expectancy the City’s exposure is projected to be $980,000 to $1.5 million in future medical care and lost wages.
Mediation was held September 23, 2020, which resulted in a settlement of $325,000, contingent on Council approval.
The Risk Management Division; the outside attorney for the City of Clearwater, Banker Lopez Gassler, P.A.; and the City’s Claims Committee recommend approval.
Funding for the payment of this settlement is available in the budget for claims expense in the Central Insurance Fund.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
5907590-545800 $325,000