Question 393General Subjects - 1st Asst/Chief

The correct answer is B) The arbitrator makes a binding decision based on the evidence and the arguments presented by both sides. Arbitration is a type of alternative dispute resolution where an impartial third party (the arbitrator) reviews the evidence and arguments presented by both parties and renders a binding decision to resolve the dispute. The arbitrator's role is to weigh the facts and make a final determination, rather than conducting independent investigations (A) or facilitating negotiations (C). The parties agree to be bound by the arbitrator's decision, which is final and cannot be appealed except on very limited grounds. The other options are incorrect because they do not accurately describe the core function of an arbitrator in a labor dispute over a collective bargaining agreement.