Successful project development requires solid public affairs strategies and permitting support. We understand the complex nature of the permitting and approval process as well as the need for precise execution of outreach and communications programs. Over the last twenty years we have been involved with successful permitting efforts for large and small residential project developments, highly controversial and complex public and private infrastructure projects and a wide variety of energy related projects.

Examples: Successful hillside project proposal; public affairs support throughout process of acquisition of 20 required permits for large, controversial infrastructure project; power plant projects; solar energy projects; large and small residential developments; stakeholder analysis, 1-day quick assessment of permitting challenges for proposed development

Many of our clients engage us as ongoing advisors in communications and strategy to support or augment in-house staff and executive management. Whether you need a few hours of crisis management advice, key executive coaching or ongoing support for issues management we can provide the expertise and outside perspective needed to support your efforts.

Examples: Coaching for in-house communications staff preparing strategic plans; advice for community leaders considering incorporation; CEO coaching for private developers; strategic advisor for non-profit board leadership; strategy for neighborhoods in proposed project permitting process; positioning strategy for new program introduction

Effective public affairs strategies include integrated public and media relations plans. We understand how to work with public stakeholders and media outlets to secure the appropriate coverage and support for our clients.

Examples: Development of media strategy for large, controversial projects at the local, state and national level; media training for key executives and staff; national media strategy in response to opposition for private development proposal; stakeholder analysis and outreach plans; editorial board briefings; implementation of public and media campaigns

Marketing and outreach into the local community to educate stakeholders about your product or service helps accomplish your goals. We perform issues assessment, lead material and message development and manage efforts to build support and advocacy for projects and issues.

Examples: Outreach in support of proposed residential developments; marketing campaigns for golf course membership programs; message development and outreach in support of issues and projects; outreach efforts and advocacy to support regional environmental projects; specialty marketing and collateral pieces; focused publications and mailings; surveys and response plans

A crisis can threaten your credibility and reputation. How you respond is critical to your future success. Our experience ranges from quick internal assessment and recommendations to development of crisis communication teams and programs to media training and preparation to client representation managing media and stakeholder response.

Examples: Public Agency Litigation; Crisis Communications Plans; Health Facility Alleged Wrong Doing; Private Developer Construction Accident; Corporate Merger and Acquisition; Public and Media Response Plan; Quick Assessment and Recommendations for Immediate Action

Individual projects require focused effort and expert management skills. We are expert project managers with experience facilitating multi-disciplinary teams including legal, operational, economic development and finance. We help set objectives and define the scope of projects, identify risks and mitigations, develop strategies and plans, and guide implementation while serving as the key point of contact for project teams.

Examples: Municipal Sustainability Master Plan; Golf Club Membership Survey; Business Retention Survey; Trade Delegation Visits; Energy Crisis Response Plan; Strategic Planning and Priority Setting; Community Meetings

A strong strategic planning and/or priority setting process can provide a roadmap for future success. We help organize and facilitate as you set measurable goals and objectives to lead your organization in a positive direction. Community meetings and forums can provide access to information and stimulate discussion around important issues and concerns. We often moderate community meetings and/or facilitate forums for clients as part of project introductory efforts and/or public review processes. We also moderate annual candidate debates and legislative updates for local civic groups.

Examples: Strategic Planning for Chambers of Commerce, non-profit groups and Cities; Priority Setting Sessions with businesses and non-profit groups; Proposed project introductory community meetings; Public Issue Forums; Moderator for NEPA and CEQA scoping meetings

We offer 1 and 2 day special packages that include quick assessments and recommendations for action on issues, project obstacles, communications, priority setting, stakeholder identification and other programs and services.

Examples: Private acquisition of facility roll out; Strategic plan review for non-profit organization; Communications strategy assessment for private business; Stakeholder analysis; Communications audit; Priority review