The city of Tampa has agreed to a $200 thousand settlement to a former legislative aide after an independent investigation into actions by city councilman Orlando Gudes that created a hostile work environment.

The settlement was the apparent result of mediation between the city and the unidentified employee, and comes one day after a lawsuit was filed against Gudes. That lawsuit, which details sexual harassment allegations, is still in play, but all other city employees are now released from any potential liability. "While we wait for the day when one of the most courageous people living in Tampa can tell her story to a jury and hold Mr. Gudes accountable," said attorney Ethan Loeb in a statement, "we are thankful to receive some justice for the victim."

"Today, the city of Tampa has acknowledged the hostile work environment Mr. Gudes created."

Normally, this settlement would lead to some form of discipline against the employee, but since Gudes is an elected member of council, the city has no such authority.

The settlement also includes a letter of apology from mayor Jane Castor.

“On behalf of the City of Tampa, we sincerely apologize for the outrageous acts and misdeeds that City Councilman Orlando Gudes directed to you and your daughter while serving as a legislative aide. Through its internal investigation, the City came to learn that Councilman Gudes created a hostile workplace that does not represent the high ethical standards and positive environment that the City seeks to promote for its employees. Nobody should have experienced the emotional turmoil and pain that you suffered. Your courage to stand up for what was morally and legally correct should be applauded by all of our employees. I certainly encourage all victims of discrimination to find the determination to speak out so that nobody encounters the kind of treatment that Councilman Gudes inflicted on you. As I previously expressed to the public, Councilman Gudes would have already been terminated had he been a City employee. The City is grateful to have resolved this portion of the dispute with you and we wish you the continued success as a loyal and long-time public servant.”

Meanwhile, there are reports that Gudes is at the center of yet another investigation. The Hillsborough County Property Appraiser's Office wants to know if Gudes lives in the district he was elected to represent. Since Gudes is a former police officer, public records laws exempt his home address, but a 2008 property deed shows an address within council district 7, which is represented by Luis Viera.

photo: city of Tampa

On-Air Schedule

The Mark Levin Show