Judge approves Browns’ federal lawsuit update asking for damages from City

CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) - A federal judge just approved the Browns’ request to amend its lawsuit, allowing the Haslams to seek damages from the city of Cleveland. The amended complaint also adds several new parties to the litigation.

The damages from the city would include costs related to fighting the city’s attempt to enforce the Art Modell Law, in addition to legal fees.

In Friday’s ruling, Judge David A. Ruiz noted that “the Court perceives no evidence of bad faith or dilatory motive by Plaintiff.”

The amendment was approved on Friday.

According to court documents, once the plaintiff files the Second Amended Complaint, Cleveland and Ohio may move, answer, or otherwise respond within the time set forth by the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and the Local Rules.

Chief Law Director for The City of Cleveland, Mark Griffin, released the following statement to 19 News about the amended complaint.

”The city continues to prioritize protecting our taxpayers, expanding economic opportunity, and upholding our legal rights. The lakefront stadium transformation plan is not only viable, it’s better for the region. To date, the City has been awarded an unprecedented $150 million for lakefront improvements, completed a comprehensive master plan, established a dedicated nonprofit to lead redevelopment efforts, and created new economic development tools capable of generating hundreds of millions more for public improvements at the lakefront. The city’s ongoing litigation against Haslam Sports Group demonstrates our commitment to protecting our investments and prioritizing the well-being of our residents now and for generations to come.