Title
Resolution to Authorize Settlement of Caitlyn Goode v City of Ann Arbor, Washtenaw County Circuit Court, Case No. 25-000436-NO
Staff
Prepared by: Jen Richards, Senior Assistant City Attorney
Reviewed by: Atleen Kaur, City Attorney
Body
Whereas, In March 2025, Plaintiff Caitlyn Goode filed a lawsuit against the City alleging it was liable for injuries she suffered in a trip and fall on a City sidewalk, which she claims was the result of the City’s failure to properly maintain its sidewalk;
Whereas, The City denied the allegations in the complaint, asserted defenses, and engaged in discovery;
Whereas, The parties now desire to settle and resolve the lawsuit, without an admission of liability on the part of any party, wherein the City will pay $99,000.00 to Plaintiff in exchange for a full and final settlement agreement signed by the parties, a release of all claims against the City, and dismissal of the lawsuit with prejudice; and
Whereas, The City Attorney’s Office has advised City Council on this matter in an attorney-client privileged and confidential legal advice memorandum dated January 26, 2026;
RESOLVED, That City Council authorizes the City Attorney to fully resolve the case entitled Caitlyn Goode v City of Ann Arbor, Washtenaw County Circuit Court Case No. 25-000436-NO for a payment of $99,000.00 from the City to Plaintiff, contingent on the receipt of a full and final settlement agreement signed by the parties, release of all claims against the City, and entry of dismissal of the lawsuit with prejudice, without fees and costs to any party, all of which shall be subject to City Attorney approval as to form and substance; and
RESOLVED That the settlement payment shall come from the Street, Bridge, Sidewalk Repair Millage; and
RESOLVED, That the Mayor, Clerk, City Administrator and City Attorney are authorized to take actions to implement this resolution, including signing a settlement agreement.