Program focuses on the often-complex community engagement process many departments face to garner early support for their projects from the communities they serve. From site selection and building orientation, through construction and the ribbon cutting, Atwater will discuss the who, where, when, what, why and how of soliciting community input to help get the project not only off the ground, but built and beloved for years to come by citizens and firefighters alike. Included are case studies of public processes ranging from the extremes of litigation to an inspired community rallying to prevent their cherished historical fire station its relocation out of their beloved neighborhood.