If you or your property is damaged as a consequence of city negligence, the city may pay all or part of the cost of repairs.  When damage occurs, be sure to:

• File a police department damage report
• Take photos
• Get at least two estimates for repairs of property damage

Once you have these, you can get a jump start on the claims process by filling out one of the City Clerk's online forms.

• Damage to vehicle.   Use this form if your vehicle has been damaged as a result of city negligence.
• Property damage.  Use this form if your property has been damaged as a result of city negligence.
• Excessive water charges.   Use this form if you have incurred excessive charges on your water bill.
• Personal injuries.  Use this form if you have suffered a personal injury as a result of City negligence.

If you would like to get a hard copy of any of these forms, stop by the City Council Division of the City Clerk's office, located on the pedway level of City Hall or call 312/744-6867.  Once a claim is returned to the City Clerk, along with copies of the police department damage report, photos and estimates, the City Clerk will introduce your claim at the next regularly scheduled meeting of the City Council.  Your claim will be forwarded to the City Council Committee on Finance who shall conduct an investigation and report back to the City Council with a recommendation that your claim be paid or denied.