City of Central Falls
Claims Committee Meeting
Monday, November 20, 2000
Following the Liquor Board Meeting
At approximately 7:00 p m
City Hall Council Chambers
A meeting of the Claims Committee was held on the above date in the City Hall Council Chambers at 7:32 p.m.
Councilman Leger
Councilwoman Canavan
Councilman Lazieh
Councilman Robichaud
Quorum present.
Chairman Robichaud presided.
A. Michelle Felizzola & William Crique for damage to vehicle when it struck a pothole on Hunt St. 2/10/00
B. Francisco S. Faria for damage to vehicle on April 4, 2000 when he struck a pot hole on Hunt St.
C. Jane Bedard for damage to vehicle on April 4, 2000 when it struck a pothole on Hunt St.
D. Jose Pimental for damage to vehicle on April 5,2000 when it struck a pothole on
Assistant Solicitor Oliverio stated that the time of the first incident was around 9:01 p.m. and the City responded by 9:20 p.m. He stated that the Board then must decide what the liability is for the City, relative to potholes and City sidewalks. The City first must be made aware of the defect and then must make repairs on the defect within a reasonable amount. He stated that since the City acted within a reasonable amount of time he would recommend that the Board deny these claims.
Motion to deny collectively was made by Councilwoman Canavan and seconded by Councilman Leger.
Discussion ensued.
Councilman Leger commented on the vicinity of the pothole.
Councilman Lazieh commented on the confusion between the pothole and the construction area on Hunt Street.
Councilman Leger stated that the pothole in question was not in front of the Manor.
Councilwoman Canavan stated that all three people struck the same pothole within minutes of each other.
Councilwoman Canavan stated that potholes are something the each and every City must live with and must depend on the residents to report pothole. She stated that it is unfortunate but she stated that it has not been proven that the City was negligent and the city did respond in a reasonable amount of time to fix the problem.
Councilman Leger yes to deny
Councilwoman Canavan yes to deny
Councilman Lazieh yes to deny
Councilman Robichaud yes to deny
Motion carried 4 yes 0 no 1 absent.
Councilman Leger asked the Solicitor what rights do the claimants has relative to the denial of these claims.
Solicitor Oliverio stated that the claimants could pursue their claims in court.
None
None
Motion to adjourn was made by Councilman Leger and seconded by Councilman Lazieh. All Agreed. So Voted. Time 8:17 p.m.
_______________________________
Elizabeth A. Crowley, CMC
City Clerk