Citrus Heights to consider mediation service for neighbor disputes

By Sara Beth Williams–
The Citrus Heights City Council on Wednesday will consider two different options regarding implementing mediation services for neighbor-to-neighbor disputes throughout the community.

According to a city staff report, the topic was brought to the City Council in response to a 2024 strategic planning meeting objective to develop mediation services options for the community at large so as to reduce undue strain on city staff. Neighbor-to-neighbor or resident-to-resident disputes can often involve nearly every city department and drain resources, the city report says.

The first option includes utilizing Citrus Heights Problem-Oriented Policing (POP) Officers who already play a “vital role” in resolving conflicts within the community by applying problem-solving strategies to “address underlying issues and promote cohesion,” according to city staff.

“POP Officers are equipped with specialized training in conflict resolution, active listening, and negotiation skills, allowing them to mediate disputes effectively while maintaining neutrality and respect,” the report says, adding that their duties often go beyond law enforcement as they work to find constructive solutions. POP Officers also help “build trust,” reducing the need for legal intervention.

City staff are recommending sending one POP officer for Enhanced Mediation Training, which comes with a projected cost of up to $1,450.

The second option includes involving an outside third party to mediate disputes, such as the Sacramento Mediation Center. According to the staff report, each mediation session is for up to three hours, and each party’s fee for the first two mediation sessions is due in advance and is based on the individual’s income.

During the sessions, mediators outline ground rules, listen to each party’s complaint, assist in suggesting solutions, identify points of compromise, and assist in writing down an agreement on paper. Mediators do not typically follow up with parties after a dispute is solved.

The cost of mediation services based on income is $25 for those making up to $25,000 annually, $50 for those making $25,001 to $50,000, $75 for those making $50,001 to $75,000, $100 for those making $75,001 to $100,000, $250 for those making $100,001 to $200,000, $500 for those making $200,001 to $500,000, and $1,000 for those making more than $500,000.

The city recommends utilizing the Sacramento Mediation Center for a one-year trial pilot program.

The Sacramento Mediation Center (SMC) has been a program provided under the California Lawyers for the Arts since 2008 and provides “confidential and neutral conflict resolution services to residents, businesses, governmental entities, and other organizations of Sacramento County to address conflict, according to the city.

Those wishing to make a public comment during the meeting can do so by attending the council meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 12, at City Hall, at 6 p.m., or by submitting a written comment beforehand using the city’s website. The deadline to submit comments online is 4 p.m. on the day of the meeting. City Hall is located at 6360 Fountain Square Drive.