The Massachusetts Office of Dispute Resolution (MODR) provides high quality mediation and case evaluation services, dispute resolution skills training, meeting facilitation, and other alternative dispute resolution services. The Office provides these services to state and other public agencies, municipalities, the courts, and citizens of the Commonwealth using a combination of MODR staff and 65 private sector mediators. These services provide a cost-effective and efficient means of resolving a wide variety of disputes, and often result in improved government responsiveness to the needs of the public.

The Office also trains state personnel in negotiation and mediation skills, so that problems can be efficiently addressed before they escalate into expensive and time-consuming disputes. The Office's programs and services include: Court Programs, Environmental Mediation, large-scale Mediations, Facilitation and Process Consulting, and the Training Program.

Budget Recommendations

The amount recommended for Fiscal Year 1999 includes an increase of $150,000 for the administration account (1100-1103), and $60,000 in the retained revenue account (1100-1104) to hire additional mediators and expand alternative dispute resolution programs.

Budgetary Direct Appropriations

OFFICE OF DISPUTE RESOLUTION
1100-1103	For the operation of the office of dispute resolution	551,320

Budgetary Retained Revenues

MEDIATION AND RELATED SERVICES RETAINED REVENUE
1100-1104	The office of dispute resolution is hereby authorized to expend an amount not to exceed $150,000 for the costs of mediation and other services, from revenue received from fees charged for said services	150,000

Intragovernmental Service Spending

OFFICE OF DISPUTE RESOLUTION INTRAGOVERNMENTAL CHARGEBACK
1100-1108	For the office of dispute resolution for the costs of mediation and other services provided to state agencies	300,000
	Intragovernmental Service Fund 100%