LA City Attorney Mike Feuer and the Dispute Resolution Program: A Fight Over Volunteering or Funding?
Los Angeles City Attorney Mike Feuer has recently announced plans to eliminate a program that has served the residents of LA for 30 years: the volunteer-staffed, grant-funded Dispute Resolution Program (DRP). This decision has raised significant questions about the future of community mediation and the value of volunteer work in conflict resolution.
The Dispute Resolution Program: Its Impact and Function
The DRP has provided a valuable service to the citizens of Los Angeles by offering free mediation for a wide range of domestic disputes. Volunteer mediators have assisted with issues ranging from dog barking complaints and apartment clutter to more complex disputes. This has not only helped to resolve issues amicably but also prevented the escalation of conflicts that might otherwise have required law enforcement or court involvement.
As a retired volunteer from the DRP for 10 years, I can attest to the program's effectiveness. Volunteers undergo extensive 40-hour training, equipping them with the necessary skills to facilitate mediation sessions. The program's success can be seen in the countless disputes that have been resolved peacefully, often in just one session.
The Nature of the DRP and Funding Issues
The DRP is not entirely grant-funded; the city provides 3 full-time staff members and a clerk to administer the program. All other personnel, including the volunteers, are unpaid. Despite its small cost, the program has provided a substantial benefit to the community. This has led to speculation about the true motivations behind City Attorney Feuer's decision to terminate the program.
While City Attorney Feuer has stated that the program is being killed due to funding issues, it's worth noting that the program has been operational for 30 years and has consistently provided value to the community. Given the minimal cost and the significant impact, it is puzzling why the program is being cut.
The Role of Volunteer Mediators
Volunteer mediators like myself have played a crucial role in the DRP's success. We have provided an overview of various dispute resolution methods, including litigation, arbitration, and mediation. By offering this knowledge, we help new mediators understand the differences and nuances of each approach, enabling them to provide better service to the community.
We also assist in facilitating community meetings to address pressing issues in the neighborhoods. These meetings not only help to resolve conflicts but also enhance community cohesion and understanding.
The Future of the DRP and Community Mediation
The DRP has been a cornerstone of conflict resolution in Los Angeles for three decades. Its elimination would be a significant loss for the community, especially since alternative dispute resolution methods are crucial for resolving disputes without the need for costly and sometimes adversarial litigation.
Public opinion plays a significant role in determining the future of the DRP. It is important for the community to express its support for this invaluable service and to advocate for its continuation. Further details on the program can be found at the LA Dispute Resolution Program.
The DRP is a shining example of how community involvement can lead to tangible benefits for all residents. Its termination would be a missed opportunity for LA to continue fostering peaceful and cooperative relationships within its communities.