We love the Brownfields Program, but it can be a tough sell, maybe even scary for some communities. But those of us who have been involved, understand the community benefits of the Brownfields Program. And so our job is to help leaders in the communities we work with understand the process, dispel any misconceptions, and help them envision the potential for identified properties.
Brownfields are real property, the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant. Cleaning up and reinvesting in these properties protects the environment, reduces blight, and takes development pressures off greenspaces and working lands.
From our first contacts with community leaders, we listen closely, take notes and try to understand their concerns and challenges. Together, leaders in city and county governments and public participation professionals can work to create a true public process and build a plan that addresses needs and supports the community at large.
Each step of the way, we’re focused on the future of the communities we work with. We address issues that arise up front and look for meaningful solutions. We are always mindful of Brownfields program benefits – economic development, community pride, reducing negative environmental impact, etc.
There are many considerations when planning for the Brownfields public outreach and participation process, but here a few points to get you moving:
- Bring your entire team to the table first. This is very important. Everyone on the team plays a different role and each role builds on the other, so take advantage of good planning up front.
- Start early! Don’t wait until you’re twelve months into your grant. Launching at the start-up can give you more than time to plan, tap resources, create a vision, determine public involvement, etc.
- Determine the criteria for eligible properties (this is in addition to any qualifying Brownfields program criteria) such as focusing on properties that need to be within certain corridors.
- Listen to the wants and needs of the community and community leaders at city council and county commission planning meetings. This can be a wealth of information.
- Write an outreach plan. And gain agreement on the plan. A good plan will not lead to success if it doesn’t have support. Use a suitable approach whenever possible – i.e. don’t place an advertorial when you could contact property owners directly via a phone call or letter or both.
- Let the experts do what they do best. Keep in mind what each expert on the team brings to the table. Environmental engineers, program managers and public outreach professionals’ expertise are entirely different. (And they should be!) Let them do their jobs. Each team member working to the fullest potential is what will create the best outcome.
- Seek out additional resources for support. There are many avenues for funding community projects, so do your research. Get creative; there may be ways to pull together private businesses to reach your goal.
- Finally, communicate within the team often. Be positive. Celebrate success. Share your knowledge.
The process takes time and Brownfields development takes even more time but there are plenty of examples that demonstrate the benefits. So get started!