College Campus Expansion Prevails Despite Opposition
Background: A small college in an exclusive residential community with a fierce NIMBY ethic wanted to double its campus size with 20 new buildings totaling 300,000 ft2. Opponents used local media and an aggressive misinformation campaign to create the illusion that the entire community was opposed.
Action: Davies identified in excess of 3,000 supporters to join together as a third party with the name of "Friends of the College." Each step of the way, Davies activated this army to support the college against opponents who delayed and appealed one decision after another. More than 500 college supporters wrote letters, sent emails, and called county supervisors voicing their support. Dozens of supporters also wrote letters to editors of local newspapers to express support of college development proposals.
Result: Despite well-funded and organized opposition, the new buildings were unanimously approved at every level.