Lawsuit against Bloomington ‘very likely’ after city refuses to pay flood victims

Posted on October 6, 2021

*Attorney William Mahrt said he represents 11 homeowners so far asking for a total of about $330,000 in claims. (Photo courtesy HOI ABC)*

BLOOMINGTON – The lawyer for several Bloomington homeowners said it’s “very likely” he’ll file a lawsuit against the city government for not compensating his clients after sewage contaminated their property during last June’s floods.

Attorney William Mahrt said he’s received a letter from the law firm representing the city informing him there will be no settlement offer.

“While the city does empathize with your clients’ claims, it nevertheless must stand by its previous determination of liability and deny these claims,” said the letter from the Quinn Johnston law firm.

Mahrt said he represents 11 homeowners so far asking for a total of about $330,000 in claims.

According to the letter, the city believes it’s not liable for damages because the historic flooding was an “Act of God.” Also, the city said it’s protected by statutes making local governments and its employees immune from such lawsuits.

He expects to file the lawsuit in the next month or two.

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