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Conflict and compromise : a case study of the decision-making process in the Downtown Eastside

University of British Columbia

Community planners frequently find themselves dealing with conflicts that arise as a result of divergence of goals or values among the participants in a neighbourhood decision-making group. Yet there is a paucity of theoretical literature in the planning field that examines the dynamic of the community planning process and gives direction to the practicing planner. This thesis suggests a framework of salient elements for structuring the community decision-making process that may assist the planner in overcoming group conflict and in promoting agreement. A case study approach involving participant observation, is used to analyse a controversial neighbourhood planning process in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside/Oppenheimer area. Theoretical literature concerned with citizen participation, community decision-making, conflict resolution, role of the planner, and bargaining strategies is reviewed for relevant constructs applicable to the analysis of the case study. Constructs judged to be useful are divided into structural elements that describe physical and organizational aspects of the decision-making process, and process elements that describe the behavioural, attitudinal and psychological aspects. Conclusions drawn suggest that the leadership role of the planner is an essential ingredient in overcoming conflict and encouraging a successful group decision outcome. The planner can exercise leadership by securing authorization for the group, by setting a strict deadline for agreement and by mediating disputes. Furthermore,the use of timely conflict resolution strategies will enable the planner to promote agreement by encouraging a climate of trust and cooperation in the group. These conclusions suggest some improvements to community planning practice and a contribution to community planning theory.

Text

2010-03-30

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http://hdl.handle.net/2429/23106

Planning

University of British Columbia

Graduate