The Barre City Council has unanimously agreed to apply for a state grant that would help start a new conflict resolution program in the city. Organizers say that a “Community Restorative Justice Center” would help people settle disputes in a constructive manner.
Similar programs are already in operation in Burlington, Winooski and Saint Johnsbury. Montpelier is pursuing one and Brattleboro officials will discuss the idea next week. The programs seek to solve neighborhood conflicts without involving traditional law enforcement or civil court action.