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Most public agencies now have an internet presence, knowing that it's a necessary tool in the 21stcentury for communicating general information to customers and area residents. But how does a publicagency use its Web site to effectively communicate a new project, program or study to stakeholders,interest groups, agency customers and the general public? And even more challenging, how does anagency keep visitors coming back to the Web site to learn more as the project develops and progresses?Public affairs best practices emphasize the importance of communicating with the public about aconstruction project, program or study. An informed public with frequent opportunities to offerfeedback means less likelihood of last-minute roadblocks to a project. For an effective communicationseffort, agencies must now include Web-based and e-mail communications in addition to traditionalwritten brochures and newsletters.One example of Web-based communication is the Web site developed as part of the public outreacheffort of the City of San Diego Water Department's Water Reuse Study (Study). Faced with a possible25% shortfall of available water supplies to match anticipated population needs in 2030, the Studyresearched six ways to use more recycled water in the City produced by the City's two waterreclamation plants. One Study option was indirect potable reuse, which would add highly treatedrecycled water to the City's drinking water reservoirs, with ultimate delivery to customers' taps.Explaining the technology behind the advanced water treatment needed for this use was extremelyimportant to address the potential negative public perception.The new Web site provided in-depth information on the Study, the six water reuse options and basicbackground information on recycled water. An extensive Study stakeholder group and contact list wasdeveloped and frequent e-mail communications kept them informed and involved with Study activities.Links to new material on the Web site were part of the coordinated e-mail correspondence to thestakeholder group. The Water Reuse Study's public outreach activities began in 2004 and continued tomid-2006.

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Edition: Vol. - No. Published: 06/01/2007 Number of Pages: 52File Size: 1 file , 3.7 MB