Ottawa County attorney David Kalman told the judge Hambley was trying to enforce an agreement that does not exist
“This phantom unwritten unsigned settlement so called settlement agreement. Your honor nothing signed in writing.”
When they took control of the Ottawa County Board last year a new conservative majority moved to fire health officer Hambley. After she filed a wrongful termination suit the two sides have been trying to negotiate a settlement. After closed door talks November 6th, the board approved what Hambley attorney Sarah Howard said was a 4 million dollar payment if Hambley would resign.
“I move to accept counsels recommendation regard litigation and settlement activities regarding the case of Hambley v Ottawa county as addressed during closed session.”
“The board decided something they voted 7 to 3 and we believe they were voting on the settlement agreement negotiated by counsel.”
“Plaintiff is trying to enforce a verbal motion by commissioner moss she cannot meet the written and signed requirements of a court rule to have a binding agreement she just can’t.”
The county and Hambley will continue negotiating with help of a mediator to resolve the stalemate.
