FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - December 21, 2022
The Willits City Council and former Willits Police Chief Alexis Blaylock entered into a settlement agreement, effective December 21, 2022, for the dismissal of Ms. Blaylock’s lawsuit against the City in which she alleged that she suffered damages from racial and gender discrimination in her brief employment with the City. While the City disputes those allegations, the Council determined that the settlement, which avoids a potentially lengthy, uncertain and expensive jury trial is in the best interest of the community of Willits.
Under the terms of the agreement Ms. Blaylock releases all of her claims In consideration for the settlement and dismissal of the lawsuit the City’s insurer will pay to Ms. Blaylock the sum of $250,000.
The Council met in closed session on December 14 and by unanimous vote “conditionally” approved the proposed settlement agreement that had been presented by Ms. Blaylock’s counsel. The approval was conditional because, under the terms of the agreement, Ms. Blaylock retained the right to reconsider her agreement and to withdraw her approval for a seven-day period following her signing. That period expired today resulting in the removal of the condition to the Council’s acceptance. The agreement is now fully executed effective today.
The entire settlement proceeds will be paid by the City’s insurer. As is the City’s practice involving personnel matters, no further comments will be made.
Press Release - Blaylock Settlement