- Need help solving a neighborhood problem?
- Why not give us a call?
- Services are free to any resident of Clark County.
Community Mediation Services
City of Vancouver
(360) 619-1140
Mediation - For Solving Problems Between Neighbors
The benefits of mediation are many. Mediation is both an alternative to enforcement and a positive way to solve difficult problems. It does not involve fines or tickets, so neighbors can live together without hard feelings. Mediation is:
- Voluntary
- Private
- Free
- Convenient
- Highly Successful
- Risk-free
Mediators are trained to help.
Mediators are volunteers trained in problem-solving and conflict resolution skills. they don't take sides; they are neutral community members who help neighbors negotiate their own agreements. Mediators help people communicate more clearly, sort out misunderstandings and settle differences.
Here are three options we offer:
- The mediator asks about the situation and helps you develop positive steps to take.
- If the problem seems too big, or you want more assistance, the mediator can call back and forth between you and the other person(s) to create agreements.
- A safe, honest meeting can be arranged for everyone to discuss the situation. We will provide mediators to help you talk about the problem and create solutions.
Answers to common questions
1. Why should I try mediation instead of calling the police?
Mediation avoids the time and adversarial nature of the enforcement system. The neighbor is more likely to respond in a positive way if you share information without blame or hostility. You can work out your own agreement rather than having a decision handed down by an officer, judge or hearing examiner.
2. Can I remain anonymous?
You can talk to a mediator without identifying yourself. Everything you say is private - it will not be revealed to anybody, including government agencies, without your permission. The mediator will contact your neighbor only if you are comfortable and give us permission to share your name. Being open is important for clear communication.
3. What sort of animal issues are appropriate for mediation?
To use mediation you must identify the pet owner or concerned neighbor. We handle animals at large, barking dogs, damage to property and animal waste issues. Instances of animal cruelty, neglect or viciousness should be reported to Animal Control.
4. What are some of the concerns Code Enforcement hears that may be appropriate for mediation?
Code Enforcement hears a lot of complaints about neighborhood nuisances that impact a neighborhood, but that are not violations of Clark County Code. When that is the case, we cannot help resolve the problem, Mediation Services has been very helpful in assisting neighbors in coming to an agreement to resolve problems that are not violations of an ordinance. Some examples of complaints that Code Enforcement hears which we believe Mediation would be helpful in resolving are; neighborhood issues regarding the noise generated from riding dirt bikes in the rural area; a neighbors tree branches hanging over the fence; violations of private covenants; and some property line disputes.
5. My neighbors are impossible. Can mediation do any good?
The success and relief most people feel after mediation assistance convince us that we can help. Mediation is successful over 80 percent of the time when all parties participate. If no agreement is reached, you can proceed with enforcement action if you choose. Experience tells us that a mediated agreement almost always lasts, because the folks involved developed it themselves.
