The city of Surprise recently announced a new partnership with Community Association Institute Arizona to help community members reach agreement on a dispute, problem, or conflict.

Mediation will facilitate negotiation and settlement between disputing parties by providing direction and encouragement, working collaboratively with them to find creative ways to reach a mutually satisfying solution, typically a compromise.

Mediators do not represent or advocate for either side in a lawsuit. Their role is to try to bring both parties to a common middle ground.

The mediation service may be utilized for a number of conflict types, both interpersonal and intergroup, including:

• Landlord/Tenant Issues– including security deposit disputes and rental property maintenance/responsibility.
• HOA Board Issues– including internal board relations and board/resident communication.
• Property & Contract Issues – including vendor workmanship, development, easement disputes and maintenance concerns.
• Neighborhood Issues – including harassment and the neighborhood “rumor mill.”

For information, contact Kayte Comes at kayte@cai-az.org, or call 602-388-1159.