Our courts are filled with more and more people suing each other over seemingly trivial matters. To respond to this trend local governments create community-based medication programs to relieve some of the stress of overcrowded court dockets. The success of cities and towns to bring neighbors together to find resolution to their conflicts and disputes is evident. So, why shouldn’t local governments apply these same techniques to issues they face when their citizens and stakeholders disagree over proposed public policy and civic projects?
- How do cities deal with anger, conflict and threats of litigation directed toward changes in public policy?
- What can cities do to “improve the quality of conflict?”
- When is it appropriate and possible for staff and elected officials to intervene in public disputes and help manage disagreements?
- How can community leaders restore a sense of civility and Organic Trust ™ to their communities?
- What can public officials do to create the environment where controversy can result in consensus?
The Institute for Community Involvement, LLC created a provocative, interactive training program for elected officials and city managers that will test your CQ (conflict quotient) and stretch your understanding of conventional conflict management processes. The focus is on creating clear expectations, and then negotiating and managing those expectations in group settings. The human dynamics of conflict is center-stage, but the institutional foundations for managing controversy underpins the process.
From this program policy-makers and public managers will gain insights to help them avoid unproductive anger, acrimony, turmoil and conflict, and redirect controversy in a positive, productive way. For more information click on http://www.community-involvement.net/trainingeducation.html.
