Let's face it, from time to time, we have issues within our community. How we deal with these conflicts is important. Quickly addressing issues head-on in a non-confrontational manner can often defuse situations before they escalate.

Consider speaking to the person(s) that you are having trouble with, many times people are completely unaware there is a problem and will change their behavior if given an opportunity.

If that approach seems uncomfortable another course of action is through professional mediation. If both sides feel as if they are being listened to a mutual understanding and resolution can frequently be reached. Resolutions Northwest, through a contract with the city, offers mediation services to neighborhood associations to resolve certain conflicts. Visit their website for additional information.

Resolutions Northwest has created some useful resource materials that can assist you and your neighbors work to resolve issues.

Dealing with Challenging People offers helpful tips how to calm the situation.

When controversy comes to your neighborhood

Tips and tools

Most Portland Neighborhood Association meetings are calm events where neighbors can receive information that is important to their geographic neighborhood. Each association develops their own process for running their meetings and establishing their own ground rules.

But sometimes neighborhoods have to deal with controversial issues. Suddenly the 15 regular attendees become 150 and too often chaos reigns.

The Office of Neighborhood Involvement has created a booklet that offers some tips for having the most successful meetings possible in high conflict situations.

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