To solicit proposals from qualified Proposers to select and retain a qualified Contractor to provide low-cost alternate dispute resolution (“ADR”) services throughout the County of Santa Barbara as set forth in the Dispute Resolution Programs Act of 1986 (“DRPA”) and the California Business & Professions Code Section 465 et seq., and its regulations contained in the California Code of Regulations, Title 16, Chapter 36 which provides for the establishment, funding, and services of local dispute resolution programs. The purpose of the Dispute Resolution Program Act (“the Act”) is to reduce the economic and personal costs of dispute resolution to individuals and to the public by encouraging the establishment and use of local dispute resolution services at the earliest possible point in conflicts as alternatives to formal, adversarial court proceedings by means of mediation, conciliation, and arbitration. Disputes that are resolved as early as possible minimize the cost to the community in time, resources, and community cohesion. Contract is expected to go into effect July 1, 2025.
