Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. R. 672-19-.01 - Purpose

(1) General. O.C.G.A § 32-6-171 requires the establishment of a Mediation Board to hear and decide disputes that may arise between the Department, the utility companies, and contractors concerning the prompt removal, relocation or adjustment of utilities on the Department's projects. The Code authorizes the Department to establish rules, procedures and guidelines for utility relocation, including the resolution of disputes pertaining to utility relocation.

(2) Legislative Intent. The legislature intended for mediation to be a means by which the Department, the Utilities, and the Contractors can settle disputes regarding the removal, relocation or adjustment of utilities on the Department's projects. The State Transportation Board views dispute resolution as a less expensive and more constructive alternative to litigation, which too often is the only option available to the parties involved in these disputes. The implementation by the Department of utility relocation procedures and the creation of a Mediation Board to assist with dispute resolution is one method of making removal, relocation or adjustment of utilities on the Department's projects both effective and efficient.

Notes

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. R. 672-19-.01

Authority O.C.G.A. Secs. 32-2-2, 32-2-81, 50-13-4.

Original Rule entitled "Purpose" adopted. F. Dec. 18, 2007; eff. Jan. 7, 2008.