What is Being Proposed?
The City Attorney's office is requesting that the Los Angeles City Council hold a closed session to discuss settlement negotiations in the pending litigation case "Gilbert Penate v. City of Los Angeles" (LASC Case No. 22SCV15106, Claim No. C22-02270). This closed session would allow city leadership and legal counsel to confer privately about the recommendation for Claims Board action regarding this case.
Why?
This closed session is authorized under California Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1), which allows governmental bodies to meet privately to discuss or receive advice from legal counsel regarding pending litigation. The City Attorney's office has determined that a confidential discussion about settlement strategy with the Claims Board is necessary before proceeding.
Key Details
The underlying matter involves a trip and fall incident that occurred on May 28, 2021, on the sidewalk at 527 North Spring Street in Los Angeles. The case has been pending since it was filed as Case No. 22SCV15106. Deputy City Attorney Lala Kahramanian is the primary contact for questions regarding the matter, and representatives from the City Attorney's office will be present during the closed session discussion.
Impact
This affects the City Council's ability to make informed decisions about how to proceed with this personal injury claim. The outcome of settlement negotiations could impact the city's financial liability and legal exposure related to the sidewalk incident.