Mediation is the next step in an attempt to settle a lawsuit filed by Harbourside Place against the town of Jupiter. Mediation will allow both sides to avoid the expense and hassle of going to court if attorneys are able to negotiate a settlement to which both sides agree.

Both sides are hoping settlement occurs and that “cooler heads will prevail.” The dispute concerns Harbourside’s use of the amphitheater, which according to attorneys for the community, was granted in a certificate of occupancy. Both sides were ordered to mediation by a Palm Beach County Circuit Judge in an effort to avoid a trial.

The court appointed certified mediator Rodney Romano, who formerly served as mayor of Lake Woth.

According to the attorney for the town of Jupiter, the lawsuit filed by Harbourside is a “gross distortion of facts.” He believes officials from Harbourside have overstepped their boundaries and want to operate in any way deemed appropriate.

The dispute escalated over the course of two years, beginning in December 2014 when Harbourside place opened and was hosting up to five events per week. Complaints followed from resident that the events were too loud. In response to the complaints, Jupiter officials reduced the time allowed for events at the amphitheater.