Feature — LOST Mediation Services
Cities and counties can take advantage of centralized resources at the University of Georgia's Vinson Institute and Fanning Institute for help in reaching agreement during negotiations of the local option sales tax (LOST). The Vinson-Fanning program will provide cities and counties that seek assistance with experienced, impartial mediators who are well versed in the intricacies of the legal aspects of LOST as well as the renegotiation process.
In 2012, 148 of Georgia's 159 counties and qualified cities will need to renegotiate the distribution of LOST revenues for the next decade. Mediation provides local governments with an objective intermediary to help them reach an agreement in a challenging process with high stakes.
The joint venture makes available the recognized expertise of both organizations. Governments can receive individualized mediation assistance from a team that includes the skills and knowledge of attorneys, local government specialists, and certified meditators.
The joint mediation team is available to local governments in need of mediation services in areas other than LOST negotiations as well. Governments can contact Murray Weed to request mediation assistance.
