The Problem: A Chicago developer of high-rise residential buildings was seeking to enter the Milwaukee condominium market. Looking to secure political and neighborhood support for the project from a diverse, astute and possibly hostile constituency, the client had to secure permits and approvals from a variety of agencies, including the Common Council and the City Plan Commission.

Our Role: ZJS engaged in municipal diplomacy on a variety of levels and personally introduced the client to opinion leaders at the neighborhood and city levels. ZJS engaged in a “walking campaign” to visit area citizens and merchants, and held listening sessions in the neighborhood, supported with printed materials and website information. Officials were provided with facts about the proposed project, and objections were overcome or remedied. ZJS managed public hearings on the matter.

The Result: The project was successful, considering our client did not receive a single vote in opposition to the project. ZJS also made arrangements to assist in the lease of temporary sales quarters for the project.