FRESNO, Calif. (FOX26) — A Fresno City Council member is urging the city to accept a federal jury’s $15.4 million discrimination verdict and not pursue an appeal, calling further litigation costly and unjust.

Following the jury’s decision awarding $15 million to La-Kebbia “Kiki” Wilson and $400,000 to Charles Smith, both former Code Enforcement employees, Councilmember Miguel Arias announced he will oppose any effort by the city to appeal the verdict.

Although the events underlying the case occurred before Code Enforcement fell under the direct supervision of the city attorney and City Council, Arias said the conduct happened within the city’s institution and condemned it.

“The conduct described in this case was wrong and reprehensible, and does not reflect the values of our city or the safe, respectful workplace every employee deserves,” Arias said.

“As leaders, we must acknowledge both the strengths and the failures of the institutions we are elected to serve,” he said.

Arias also offered a public apology to Wilson and Smith for what they experienced, saying the city has now been held accountable by a federal jury.

He said the case reflects a broader concern about how the city handles some legal disputes.

“Too often, the City has been quick to settle claims brought by police officers while prolonging cases brought by members of the public, nonprofit organizations, and civilian employees,” Arias said. “Those decisions ultimately cost taxpayers millions more in legal fees when cases are eventually lost in court or settled after years of litigation.”

Arias said appealing the verdict would repeat that pattern.

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“It is time for the City to take responsibility, resolve this matter, and learn from the mistakes that were made under the prior city attorney,” Arias said. “Prolonging this case through an appeal would only delay justice and increase costs to taxpayers.”

“I will not support any further delay or an appeal of this case,” Arias added. “Continuing to litigate would be fiscally irresponsible and the wrong decision for a city that prides itself on celebrating and protecting its rich diversity.”

Arias said he will oppose any effort to appeal the jury’s decision and is urging the city to move forward by resolving the matter and reinforcing policies aimed at ensuring fairness, accountability and a safe workplace for all employees.