Advantus created a comprehensive communications and public relations plan designed to preserve jobs and benefits for thousands of workers employed by the Commonwealth of Virginia. [Read More].
Case Study - Osage Bio Energy
The Client:
Osage Bio Energy (OBE) is headquartered in Glen Allen, VA, and was established to pursue the development of the United States’ first major barley to ethanol production facility. Osage announced that its first facility would be located in Hopewell, Va. Osage’s investment in this ethanol facility is approximately $160 million. The process, as originally permitted by Virginia’s Department of Environmental Quality, captures the naturally occurring, high-value proteins in barley to generate Ethanol.
Specific Challenge
Following extensive engineering and operational review of its original design, Osage engineers determined that it could optimize plant processes to more efficiently utilize its operational footprint and still produce 65 million gallons of ethanol/year. To proceed, Osage needed to procure an amendment to its original air permit from DEQ. Osage wanted to secure its amendment in a timely manner so it could proceed with its construction and begin its operations in 2010. This process requires a public comment period and, potentially, review before the State Air Pollution Control Board.
Strategies and Tactics
Advantus Strategies recommended a broad strategy that focused on Hopewell residents, while providing regular and focused communication to staff and leadership of DEQ. Advantus coordinated its work with Osage environmental staff, public relations staff, operational management and company leadership. All communication would be appropriately positive. The strategic effort, specifically, involved the following:
- Plan, coordinate and actively manage a voluntary community meeting for Hopewell residents regarding the Osage facility at Hopewell High School. This café-style meeting included informational areas on environmental operations, agricultural and crop requirements, protocol and timing for hiring, and general information about Osage and the plant’s benefits to Hopewell.
- Coordination of advance meetings with elected and civic leaders, regional leadership, groups and organizations to provide detail on the operational modifications and the need for an amendment to its existing air permit.
- Communication with local environmental activists regarding the operational modifications and review need for amendment.
- Coordinate all interaction with media associated with either the community meeting, or other news associated with the Osage.
- Coordinate and facilitate advance meetings with community officials (elected and administrative) and community residents and other persons identified as appropriate and valuable to obtain positive support for the meeting and amendment.
- Coordination of all activity with Osage personnel.
- Regular and steady communication with DEQ staff and leadership.
- Provide coordination of public input for DEQ public comment period on proposed air amendment.