Community Conflict and Problem Solving - Landfill Company (#903)

Development of this simulation was supported by a grant from the J.W. McConnell Family Foundation.

Months of mounting conflict and miscommunication between a local community organization, a landfill company and the Ontario government have reduced meetings to shouting matches. A consultant has been hired to facilitate a resolution amongst these various stakeholders who have conflicting goals and interests.

Learning Objectives

Setting an agenda
Facilitating group discussion
Mediating between parties
Acknowledging underlying interests
Prioritizing issues
Defining next steps

Information for Learners

You have been called in to facilitate a meeting between representatives from three parties interested in the location and impact of a local landfill site. A previous public meeting dissolved into chaos and name-calling resulting in further chaos.

Simulation Details

Simulator Role(s)

Representatives from three factions:

Roberto and Richard, Community Liaison committee (CLC)
John and Cathy, the ABC Company (landfill owner/operator)
Petula and Dave, the Ministry of the Environment

Note: This simulation can work with four characters - Roberto, Richard, John and Petula.

Learner Role(s)

Consultant hired by ABC, the Landfill Company

Setting

Community meeting room at a Recreation Centre