New Company Works to Resolve Conflicts and Avoid Litigation at Former Industrial Sites

Legacy Solutions is dedicated to producing agreement on the cleanup of former industrial sites. Legacy helps build relationships with business leaders, community representatives and local officials.

August, 2003 -- Some companies believe mothballing" is the best alternative to expensive cleanup and future liability for former industrial sites. Communities see the shuttered sites as eyesores. They believe the sites contribute to declining property values, declining tax revenue and urban sprawl. In order to find common ground, the parties must build their capacity to work together. The ultimate goal should be to generate an agreement that meets everyones interest.

Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) tools allow the parties to properly prepare for negotiations. It is easier to maintain or build relationships with proper preparation. Also, the parties tend to clarify details that are important to success.

The Consensus Building Institute, a non-profit group, investigated 100 communities around the United States that used ADR tools to resolve land use disputes. Most participants, 86%, viewed the process either very favorably or favorably. Overall, 88% thought the final agreement was creative in producing the best possible outcome for all parties".

Corporate sustainability and community improvement are not mutually exclusive," said Sheila Mitchell, owner of Legacy Solutions. We have an opportunity to use these shuttered facilities as catalysts for improvement in those areas where it is most needed."

Legacy specializes in resolving conflicts in distressed urban communities and extreme rural areas. The liability at these sites usually exceeds property value. Legacy helps design problem solving processes that reflect the communitys goals for social and environmental development while addressing the companys concern for economic limitations and future environmental liability.

Legacys staff has over 20 years experience in resolving disputes over the construction and operation of industrial facilities and negotiating damage and liability settlements. Legacys services include issues assessments, collaborative problem solving, and agreement implementation.