Community Mediation Services of St. Louis provides neighbors a safe space to come together to discuss and resolve disputes that have grown beyond their ability to handle directly with each other. Issues might include noise, parking, pets, trash, common area usage, or any number of areas where neighbors’ views and priorities clash. Many of the disagreements have been going on for months and have involved the police. When neighbors talk together and listen to each other in mediated discussion, they often come away with new perspectives and find resolution.
 
 

Concerns Over Sound

Barking dogs, loud music, firecrackers, parties, raucous guests. Each of these issues can be enough to cause significant irritation, though need not be a matter for long term dispute. Sometimes a party may not be aware of the disturbance that he or she is making.
 
 

Concerns Over Boundaries

Limited street parking, disputes over property lines and fences, trespassing, tree overgrowth, overspray when watering or spraying for weeds. Differences in each of these areas can lead to conflict, particularly when understandings and needs differ. Mediation can help parties work through such issues so that they are working together instead of at odds with each other.
 
 

Concerns Over Maintenance and Lawn Care

Frequency or infrequency of mowing, weed growth, invasive plants, tree maintenance, home upkeep, dead vehicles, code issues, trash, and yard decorations can all be sources of conflict. Mediation can help parties come to an understanding of what their expectations are, and what steps are necessary to meet those expectations.
 
 

Neighborhood Mediation Can Help

Neighbors who invest an average of two hours in a neighborhood mediation to constructively talk and listen to each other can usually find ways to resolve their disputes by the time a session closes. If they have not, they are often well on the way, and we can schedule a second session if it is helpful. Contact us to request a mediation.