The Memo: Term Project

MEMO TO: Project Manager

FROM: R. Santini, VP T&D

SUBJECT: Public Participation Concerns

This week, I have received three protest letters (see attached) condemning the siting and proposed construction of the transmission line through the Nebo Valley. These three letters address aesthetics, public health concerns, the taking of private lands, destruction of environmental resources, etc. I anticipated some opposition to the line, and after reviewing company policy on public participation, I realized our plan for engaging the public is inadequate. As the project manager, I am asking that you address not only the letters, but also devise a plan to engage the public in the siting process.

By the end of this week, I need you to:

1. PROTEST LETTERS: As the project manager, develop a written response to each of the protest letters. Each response should be a professionally written response....what a company would send in response to these protest letters. Be as creative as possible. The three letters should be prepared in draft form so I can review and comment on them. Links to the three letters are below.
   • Friends of Nebo Valley
   • Nebo Homeowners Association
   • Nebo Protest
      
2. INTERNAL PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT DOCUMENT: Develop an internal document, as part of the overall siting document, on how to engage the public in the siting process. This document should be prepared for review by the oversight committee. Use the information you acquired from Lesson 4, and the three documents referenced below to develop your plan to be presented to the oversight committee. You need to include, at a minimum, how the public will be contacted, how they will be involved, how the public participation activities will be advertised, how public feedback will be processed, where and how the public can review and provide additional comments, and review Frequently Asked Questions. You are the project manager and your professional reputation is on the line here, so put forth your best effort!
    
3. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PLAN: Develop a plan and a professional-looking brochure to be shared with the public. It should include information about how the public can participate in local meetings about the plan. Include Internet research in your plan to determine how other utilities address this issue. You are looking for anything from using one- or two-page flyers, to complete public participation plans. Here are some references to get you started:
   • SRP Public Involvement
   • Kentucky Guide to Public Participation
   • Western Area Power Administration (WAPA) Public Involvement Overview (PDF)

   This plan should be a final information plan for internal review and a professional-looking brochure available for the public. It should contain, at a minimum, where the project is proposed, why it is needed, a map showing the proposed routes, places, dates and times for public meetings, and where the public can find updated information, such as company websites, etc.

   Remember….First impressions will weigh heavily on public opinion. If you put little thought and effort into your plan, don’t expect it to be received well by the committee or the public and don’t expect it to be successful…….project delays can result in millions of additional dollars being allocated to addressing questions and concerns due to poorly developed plans.

If you have any questions, please contact me immediately.