Common use of Formal Resolution, Level Three Clause in Contracts

Formal Resolution, Level Three. Within the time limits for appeal to Level Four, the District and the Association may by mutual agreement elect to submit the grievance to mediation to attempt to resolve the grievance by informal agreement. If there is agreement to submit the grievance to mediation, the District shall contact the California State Conciliation Service and request that a mediator be appointed. The mediation shall be limited to a total of eight (8) hours unless the parties agree to additional time. The parties shall attempt to reduce outstanding issues, and if possible, settle the dispute. The mediator, however, shall not have the power or authority to render a decision on the issues(s) or impose a settlement on the parties. Any statements made during the mediation process (other than those already documented at Levels One and Two) shall be confidential, shall not be considered precedential in nature, and shall not be admissible in any future court, administrative proceeding, or additional step in the grievance procedure. If mediation does not satisfactorily resolve the grievance, the Association may appeal the grievance to Level Four within ten (10) days of the last mediation session