Template revised September 22, 2016.
COMMISSION
AGENDA MEMORANDUM
Item No.
6f
ACTION ITEM
Date of Meeting
June 26, 2018
DATE: June 25, 2018
TO: Port of Seattle Commission
FROM: Stephen P. Metruck, Executive Director
SUBJECT: Employment Settlement – Craig Watson
Amount of this request:
$500,000
ACTION REQUESTED
Request Commission authorization for the Executive Director to enter into a settlement
agreement with Craig Watson for his separation and early retirement from the Port of Seattle
under the terms outlined in a proposed settlement agreement for an amount not to exceed
$500,000.
JUSTIFICATION
A recent internal workplace complaint about Craig Watson was investigated. The Port
determined that the incident was insufficient to support discharge for cause, as required for a
decades-long Port employee.
The Executive Director and Commission leadership have determined that as a result of the
incident, they have lost trust and confidence in Mr. Watson’s ability to carry out his duties and
responsibilities, and are concerned about the inherent conflict of interest if he is permitted to
remain in a position responsible for legal, employment, and workplace conduct matters. The
Executive Director and Commission leadership believe it is in the best interest of the Port to
avoid a contested and expensive disciplinary hearing and potential litigation to resolve this
matter by reaching a compromise for Mr. Watson’s separation and early retirement.
ATTACHMENTS TO THIS REQUEST
None.
PREVIOUS COMMISSION PUBLIC ACTIONS OR BRIEFINGS
None.
