The Region : $3.2-Million Award Asked

A claims board recommended that Los Angeles County pay $3.2 million to George Benda, 49, of Redondo Beach, who was paralyzed below the rib cage when a 150-pound chunk of concrete from the old Manhattan Beach Pier fell on him 3 1/2 years ago as he did stretching exercises before jogging. If the recommendation is accepted, the payment would be the largest personal injury case settlement ever made by the county to an individual. Benda, who was an electrical contractor, said the amount would do little more than pay his medical bills, provide the special quarters he needs and give him a modest living for the coming years.