Suffolk Jury Orders Commission to Pay $1 Million
A Boston jury found the city water commission liable for discrimination and retaliation against a longtime employee.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Human Resources
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A Suffolk County jury has ordered the Boston Water and Sewer Commission to pay $1 million after finding the agency guilty of employment discrimination and retaliation. The verdict follows a lawsuit filed by manager Terrance Williams, who alleged he was targeted after filing his complaint.
Why it matters
The case highlights significant allegations of workplace bias, as the plaintiff claimed he was denied promotions given to less qualified white colleagues. The ruling underscores the potential legal and financial consequences for public agencies facing accusations of discriminatory personnel practices.
The jury award includes $400,000 in punitive damages, while the plaintiff, Terrance Williams, alleged his weekly salary was $1,828.79 during his tenure. The commission maintains a workforce of approximately 450 employees.
The players
Terrance Williams
He served as the manager of operations for the Boston Water and Sewer Commission for over three decades.
Boston Water and Sewer Commission
This public agency is responsible for the water and sewer infrastructure serving the residents of Boston.
Maura Healey
She serves as the Governor of Massachusetts and granted a pardon to Williams in 2023.
The details
Williams, a 30-year employee who served as an operations manager from 2017 until his termination in May 2025, claimed the commission retaliated by altering performance reviews and denying him interview opportunities. He also alleged the agency promoted white colleagues who lacked the required college degrees for their positions.
Timeline
1988: Terrance Williams began his employment with the commission.
2022: Williams filed a civil lawsuit against the agency.
2023: Governor Maura Healey granted Williams a pardon for a 1984 juvenile offense.
May 2025: The commission terminated Williams from his position.
October 15, 2026: The jury returned the verdict against the commission.
Market Landscape
This judgment aligns with broader patterns of litigation under Massachusetts employment discrimination statutes regarding retaliation and workplace equity. The verdict highlights the ongoing scrutiny public entities face when management decisions regarding promotions and discipline are perceived as racially motivated.
The verdict indicates a significant shift in the liability of the commission, which is funded by city utility ratepayers. Residents should monitor if the $1 million payout results in changes to departmental budgeting or internal human resources oversight policies.
The takeaway
Employers must ensure that disciplinary actions and promotion processes remain transparent and free of bias to avoid substantial litigation risks. Workers who believe they have been targeted for retaliation should maintain thorough documentation of their professional reviews and communications.
Further reading
Learn more about local labor standards in Boston Human Resources.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Boston Globe.
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