In 2006, Chattanooga Mayor Ron Littlefield signed the U.S. Conference of Mayors Climate Protection Agreement and later formed the Green Committee. This 12-member panel was charged with advising Mayor Littlefield on steps the City of Chattanooga government, local business and industry and individual citizens could take to make Chattanooga a more "green" and sustainable community.

In December 2007, the committee held its first meeting and designated four task forces: Energy Efficiency; Natural Resources; Healthy Communities; and Education and Policy. It was determined that community input was needed.

The committee planned a communitywide visioning process, Chattanooga Green, and looked to Waterhouse Public Relations to generate public support and participation in the event. Waterhouse PR called on the citizens of Chattanooga to take part in local meetings, give suggestions and actively work towards environmental change.

Objectives

1. To inform the public about Chattanooga Green
2. To encourage residents to develop a sense of ownership and involvement in Chattanooga Green
3. To generate community participation in Chattanooga Green

Strategy

The Waterhouse PR team executed an aggressive media campaign that encompassed a vast array of media outlets. Consistent and thorough messaging kept the Green Meeting forefront in local print and broadcast coverage.

Invitations were sent to City and County officials, green businesses and community trendsetters which resulted in a remarkable turnout. Green businesses and organizations participated by hosting booths and contributed to the grassroots feel of the event.

Result Highlights

• More than 500 area residents attended Chattanooga Green, filling the main ballroom at The Chattanoogan hotel to capacity.
• Through lively small group discussions, the Green Committee received 1,023 suggestions from the attendees.
• Media circulation was estimated at 367,808. Coverage for the event included 10 interviews on local television and radio stations and more than a dozen articles in the Chattanooga Times Free Press, including a front page feature story.

The Committee's final report and recommendations were presented to Mayor Littlefield in December 2008.