Newton City’s Finance Committee convened on March 10, 2025, to address two significant workers' compensation claims, ultimately approving a total of $94,000 in settlements.

The first claim involved a 32-year-old employee from the sewer division who sustained an elbow injury while on the job. After initially denying a subsequent back injury claim due to lack of medical evidence, the case escalated to the Industrial Accident Board. To mitigate potential future liabilities, the city agreed to a settlement of $45,000, which covers approximately one year of workers' compensation benefits. This decision was influenced by the employee's prior medical history and the risk of ongoing claims if he were to return to work.

The second claim, amounting to $49,000, involved a heavy equipment operator who suffered a back injury in July 2023. The city initially denied this claim due to the employee's DUI just days before the injury and the circumstances surrounding the incident, which were captured on surveillance. However, after a lengthy legal process, the judge ruled in favor of the employee, prompting the city to negotiate a settlement to avoid further litigation costs and extended compensation payments.

Committee members expressed their appreciation for the thorough efforts made by Kelly Brown, the workers' compensation and medical leave manager, in navigating these complex cases. The settlements are seen as a strategic move to limit future financial exposure and resolve ongoing disputes efficiently.

As the city moves forward, these decisions highlight the challenges of managing workers' compensation claims and the importance of balancing employee rights with fiscal responsibility.