Sec.17-619-8. Assessment and mediation

(a) All eligible applicants shall participate in assessment and mediation pursuant to Section 17-620 of the Connecticut General Statutes as may be amended.

(b) Participation in assessment and mediation is a prerequisite to eligibility for rent bank resources.

(c) Each participating mediation agency shall designate trained staff or contract with individuals or organizations with expertise in landlord-tenant mediation to provide the assessment and mediation services described herein.

(d) All completed applications shall be reviewed and the applicant shall be notified of the disposition of the application and the reasons for the action taken within five (5) working days of receipt of the completed application by the mediation agency. A copy of the notice of disposition shall be provided to any state agency responsible for the referral. The applicant shall be referred to other agencies and social services for assistance, if appropriate.

(e) If the applicant is denied service, he or she shall be advised in writing of the right to a desk review with the mediation agency pursuant to Section 17-619-15 and of the right to a fair hearing pursuant to Section 17-619-16. This written notification shall also include a statement of the right of the applicant and his or her representative to review all information used in the decision to deny assistance.

(f) The mediation agency shall conduct a comprehensive assessment of the eligible family in accordance with this section.

(g) The mediation agency shall determine, within the exercise of professional judgment, the feasibility of mediating a settlement between the family and the landlord or creditors with or without financial assistance.

(h) If the mediation agency determines, within the exercise of professional judgment, through the assessment that mediation is appropriate, a mediation shall be scheduled and conducted.

(i) The mediation agency shall conduct follow-up on all successful mediations at 120 and 360 day intervals.

(Effective October 1, 1993)