Ald. Jason Ervin (28) (left) and city attorney Renai Rodney on Monday before aldermen approved a $1.83 million payment to settle a lawsuit brought by five female paramedics alleging sexual harassment in the Chicago Fire Department.

Aldermen on Monday gave initial approval for the city to spend $1.83 million to settle a lawsuit brought by five female paramedics alleging patterns of sexual harassment, and in some cases retaliation, in the Chicago Fire Department.