SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 4

BY  KIBBIE

A Concurrent Resolution directing the Office of Citizens’ Aide/Ombudsman to perform mediation services, under the direction of the Legislative Council, to resolve a dispute between the board of trustees of a drainage district and residents of land in the district.

   WHEREAS, on December 15, 2010, the Levee and Drainage District Law Study Committee, as appointed by the Legislative Council, met to consider a number of issues affecting districts organized under chapter 468 of the Iowa Code; and
   WHEREAS, the committee considered testimony and evidence presented by persons involved in a dispute concerning Muscatine-Louisa Drainage District 13; and
   WHEREAS, the dispute involves the dredging of a drainage ditch ordered by the Muscatine-Louisa Drainage District 13 Board of Trustees and its decision to dispose of the resulting spoil on the residential property of district landowners who are not engaged in farming; and
   WHEREAS, the Levee and Drainage District Law Study Committee recommended that the General Assembly consider legislation authorizing the Office of Citizens’ Aide/Ombudsman to provide mediation services to assist in settling the dispute; NOW THEREFORE,

   BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE, THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONCURRING, That the Office of Citizens’ Aide/Ombudsman offer mediation services, under the supervision of the Legislative Council, to the parties involved in this dispute; and

   BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the parties to this dispute are encouraged to cooperate with the Office of Citizens’ Aide/Ombudsman in order to find common ground and achieve a lasting solution, that satisfies all parties; and
   BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Office of Citizens’ Aide/Ombudsman provide a report to the Legislative Council regarding the resolution of this issue by December 1, 2011; and
   BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be sent by mail or electronic means to Ms. Ruth H. Cooperrider, Citizens’ Aide/Ombudsman; to the Board of Trustees of Muscatine-Louisa Drainage District 13; and to the following residents of Muscatine County: Mr. Russell Alderin, Mr. Todd Reinsager, and Mr. Bill Haag.