Managing Local Opposition

Abstract

In analyzing facility-siting cases, we are left with the conclusion that public acceptance is crucial to successful siting. In some instances, this requirement is obvious: facility siting is increasingly governed by policies that specify a substantive role for the host community. However, even in cases where the developer retains legal authority over siting decisions, local residents and elected officials often devise strategies for blocking a proposed facility. Thus, regardless of the degree of statutory authority held by the host community, there are pragmatic reasons for gaining local acceptance. In addition, from an ethical standpoint, one may argue that the construction of a hazardous or otherwise noxious facility requires consent from those directly affected. This chapter considers these perspectives in arguing for active approaches for public acceptance.