The dispute between the city of American Canyon and developer Watson Ranch is headed to mediation.   The development project is in limbo while negotiations occur.   The sides met for the first time recently with the mediator, attorney Michael Durkee, who specializes in land use and local government issues. 

The dispute is over a development project that would include more than 1200 residential units, as well as a large commercial center and luxury hotel.   All of this would be located nearby or at the city’s old cement factory. 

Both sides agreed to the mediation following months of failed negotiations without third-party assistance.   According to those involved, those negotiations did not yield much progress.   At one point, the developer produced a document that included its priorities and the city made changes.   The development company was unhappy with the changes and the dispute ensued. 

The choice to mediate came after a public meeting in January.   The meeting included several requests from the developer of the City Council, including one that addressed more homes built than what was listed in the original plan.   Later, the city accused the developer of trying to represent the city in private talks.   According to one official, the impasse has led to delays and the environmental report issued last summer raised a number of questions from American Canyon citizens and various groups affected by the project.   There are also concerns over traffic in the area. 

Now, the two sides hope to resolve the issues through mediation, so the project can move forward and everyone affected can be satisfied.