TEETERING AT THE TOP OF THE LADDER - THE EXPERIENCE OF CITIZEN GROUP PARTICIPANTS IN ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION PROCESSES

Citizen groups that participate in alternative dispute resolution proc esses have overcome many of the barriers described in Sherry Arnstein' s classic article, ''A Ladder of Citizen Participation.'' A well-struc tured collaborative process can remedy some of the imbalances and othe r stumbling blocks inherent in traditional forums, broadening the issu es considered as well as the potential solutions. At the top of the la dder, there exists a three-runged extension of choices. First citizens must make the strategic choice whether or not to participate in the d ispute resolution process. Second, if they choose to participate, citi zens must then determine how to do so effectively. Citizen representat ives can significantly influence the outcome of a negotiation if they pay attention to the critical components comprising the dispute settle ment process and ensure that these are satisfactory at the outset. The y must also maintain effective communication with their constituencies At the third rung, citizen groups confront the need for continued inv olvement, both to ensure implementation of any agreements reached, as well as to capitalize on the productive working relationships and oppo rtunities for further influence provided by their participation in thi s process.