Case Study: Defusing Controversy

Their Problem: The City of Alexandria is known for its vocal residents and community organizations. While the City of Alexandria does a great job at facilitating meetings, they were struggling with the “F” Feedback. The City embarked on a controversial study to exam the potential of converting industrial land into transit oriented development. The study brought out supporters and opposition of the existing industrial businesses.

Our Solution: Nspiregreen Partner, Veronica Davis, worked with the City’s Department of Planning and Zoning and the Department of Transportation and Environmental Services to develop a process to collect feedback from the public, and systematically respond to all comments. Veronica proposed a 6-week comment period where people could email, snail mail, fax, or call in their comments. Veronica collected and responded to all comments. The City issued an Official Record of Responses to Public Comments, which was presented to the Planning Commission and City Council.

Their Success: Addressing all concerns and increased transparency by the City resulted in a satisfied public.