Former Carmel building official John Hanson reinstated by city, ending almost a year of litigation.

It's been a long time coming, but former Carmel building official John Hanson once again has a job with the city. 

The decision came after a closed session City Council meeting tonight discussing Hanson's lawsuit against the city, which alleged age discrimination and retaliation for whistleblowing. Hanson, who had worked for the city almost 25 years, was fired from his job as a building official in August 2013.

Hanson had participated as a witness in the sexual harassment lawsuit concerning former Human Resources Director Jane Miller. Miller's attorney, Michael Stamp, represented Hanson in his claim against the city.

The settlement for Hanson, which was unanimously approved by City Council (minus Ken Talmage, who was out of town), amounted to about $340,000, according to Carmel City Administrator Doug Schmitz. 

Schmitz says the amount is a total of back pay, benefits, attorney’s fees, expenses and damages, and adds the money will be covered by the city’s insurance group, CSAC Excess Insurance Authority.

Schmitz says Hanson will report to work next week. 

UPDATE: 11/26 11am — In a statement released by the city, Carmel Mayor Jason Burnett says City Council “carefully reviewed the actions by the city to terminate long-time employee John Hanson and strongly felt he should be offered his position back. We appreciate all that Mr. Hanson has done for the community over his many years of service in various capacities and we look forward to his continued efforts to serve our community.”

A statement from Hanson and his family, which was sent out in the city's statement, expresses gratitude to all those who stuck by his side over the last several months:

"My family and I wish to thank all of our friends who supported us through this struggle. I am ready to come back and help heal and rebuild Carmel-by-the-Sea. 

"To those citizens who engaged in the process, thank you. Because of your efforts, we are here today. You have shown the true spirit of Carmel-by-the-Sea, which is why I have worked for Carmel-by-the-Sea for so many years."