A judge has approved a $7.3-million settlement in a class-action lawsuit over a 2019 fire that displaced tenants at the Westcourt Place building in downtown Windsor, capping off a years-long legal process.

Justice Spencer Nicholson wrote in his reasons that the deal falls “within a zone of reasonableness,” even though several tenants and the City of Windsor objected.

“Although not perfect, I find that the proposed settlement is fair, reasonable and in the best interests of the class,” he wrote in a decision dated Oct. 31.

The fire broke out in the building’s parking garage on Nov. 12, 2019. The mixed-use tower has about 150 apartments and 80,000 square feet of commercial space.

The $7.3-million settlement is a fraction of the $35 million initially sought in the lawsuit.

Nicholson brok

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