A proposed settlement was reached during recent mediation concerning a proposed settlement of a federal lawsuit filed by Chief Doug Cole of the Monroeville police against several former officials and the municipality. That proposed settlement is expected to be voted on shortly.

The lawsuit filed by the chief accused members of council, as well as the named officials, of dismissing him in 2013 in retaliation for supporting political opponents, something that is considered not only unethical, but could cross the line into breaking laws. No details of the settlement have been released, but are expected to be made public once the settlement has faced a vote.

The settlement was not the only issue discussed during the meeting. The council also heard about the municipalities proposed storm-sewer separation project, which is mandated by the US Environmental Protection Agency and the State Department of Environmental Protection. The rules require municipalities to minimize the impact of runoff of storm water into sanitary sewers. The presenter pointed out the council members the sewers in the area are a quarter decade past their lifespan, and that the pipes are made of clay and could erode and collapse over time.

There is concern over the amount of money it will cost to have the system updated and/or replaced, but council members are considering their options.

The details of both issues will become public once a decision is finalized concerning the mediation settlement. Neither attorneys for the chief, not those named in the lawsuit, were available for comment following the session.