The duties of the Small Claims Commission shall be to investigate, consider and determine the merits of all small claims for damages filed with the City and to decide whether or not a payment of such small claims shall be made. The Commission shall base their decisions upon the merits of the claim, the circumstances and the law as pertaining to the situation involved. If the Commission so decides, it is authorized to settle claims for amounts not to exceed five hundred dollars ($500.00). (Ord. 26-84. Passed 9-18-84.)