The Webster County Supervisors approved a $2.75 million mediated settlement payment Tuesday for a 2022 motor vehicle accident involving a county snowplow. According to Webster County Attorney Darren Driscoll, the payment from the Iowa Community Assurance Pool (ICAP) to Regina Rhea will resolve the contested civil matter in exchange for full release of all claims against the County. The funds do not come from the county budget, but instead from the ICAP risk pool, which Driscoll likened to insurance. “Prior to litigation there was a mediation a few weeks ago where our counsel and represented parties met with opposing counsel and Ms. Rhea and they started out with a $10 million demand,” said Driscoll. “The negotiated resolution was $2.75 million. No fault is admitted by the county as part of the settlement. This individual was significantly injured and required multiple surgeries as a result of the collision and based on ICAP’s recommendation, they recommend that we accept the settlement.” The supervisors also approved the first consideration of a new ordinance for animal control and welfare which provides provisions for shelter fees and procedures, rabi
