YPSILANTI – the City of Ypsilanti has settled a racial discrimination case in relation to the hiring of a new fire chief. The lawsuit settled for $270,000.
The lawsuit, brought by attorney James Fett on behalf of Livonia Fire Captain Phil Kamm, alleges discrimination in the selection of Ypsilanti’s new fire chief.
Kamm, who is white, was initially awarded the position after a rigorous selection process. However, days after the selection, a racially-charged city council meeting took place in which some council members blatantly espoused their belief that Kamm should not be hired because he was white, despite being the most qualified candidate.
Kamm’s offer was then rescinded, and the position was awarded to interim fire chief Ken Hobbs.