Compliance Assistance

Accurately defining the project goals and objectives is critical to the success of the project. When the end result and steps needed to get to that end result are clearly articulated, it is much more likely that the project will succeed.

Write down the project goals and objectives and be specific. With clearly defined project goals, the team can better communicate their vision to municipal and Tribal officials and community stakeholders. 

The team may want to create one or more of the following documents:

• Policy statement – This document sets out the specific goals and objectives for the project. This document can be used to brief municipal officials, community stakeholders and new team members.

• Financial plan including budget – Creating a financial plan and budget allows team members to track the financial progress of the project. Funding flow and rate can be monitored during the course of the project. Again, this document can be used to brief project stakeholders.

• Operations guide – This technical resource shows how the project will be implemented. It can be used to track various project stages and sub-activities.

• Public Relations/Communication guide - This guide should define who the project stakeholders are (i.e. community organizations; local organizations; businesses; political entities such as the mayor’s office, congressman’s office; media, etc.) and how information will be distributed to the various stakeholders.

The team should also monitor community events and resources. The project goals may need to be adjusted to respond to unforeseen circumstances, population changes or demographic shifts. A community feedback mechanism may provide new information to improve the project.

EPA has worked collaboratively with communities to improve human health and the environment. Based on that experience, the Agency has created the New Resources on Collaborative Problem-Solving Web site with case studies, tools and services and other resources to help communities reach their environmental goals.

Top of page

Next Step: Devise a Technical Solution

Previous Step: Conduct a Needs Analysis