KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The aide to a former Kansas City councilman will receive a $225,000 settlement of her complaint that the councilman created a hostile work environment.

The city council approved the settlement Thursday for Tonia Titus, who worked for ex-councilman Michael Brooks. The city’s law department recommended the settlement because a jury might believe her allegations, subjecting the city to higher damages.

Titus also accused Brooks last year of assaulting her in his office but a Platte County prosecutor decided not to press charges. Brooks denied the allegations but did not seek re-election. Titus has a different job in city government.

The Kansas City Star reports Titus’ attorney, Athena Dickson, said her client feels the settlement validates her concerns.

Brooks’ attorney, John Picerno, said Brooks wanted to fight the claim.