IAMC INSIDER

   This issue of Site Selection features “mega sites” as well highlighting examples of excellence in service provided by the service sector. Mega projects on mega sites certainly capture the headlines as well as the imagination. And there is no doubt that bringing a mega project to fruition is a rewarding experience. The formalities of a ground breaking, a ribbon cutting or a plant dedication are filled with pomp and circumstance. These formalities, however, seldom highlight the complexities and challenges presented by these mega projects.

   Behind the formalities lies a group of service providers. In order to make the mega project a success, this group of service providers had to form an effective team, one built of professionalism, mutual trust, respect and the desire to succeed. When the term “service provider” is used, it typically brings to mind the economic development community, the real estate professionals, the legal profession and the financial community. What is often lost is the dedication of the “other” service providers. But who are these “other” service providers?

   It may be the building official, balancing too many projects with too small of a staff, while trying to determine the intent of some obscure section of the building code and how it relates to this specific situation.

It may be the environmental group, recognizing that preservation of marginal habitat in the path of urbanization is less desirable than working toward species relocation and habitat restoration at an alternative, more viable, location. It may be the publisher of the local legal newspaper that “holds the presses” for another hour to insure that the proper legal notifications can be made. It may be the archaeologist who focuses the site investigation at areas of critical project importance, clearing these areas first so that construction may commence. Or it may be the staff of the local planning and zoning commission, staying late to process the request for a conditional use permit so that the full commission will be able to hear project- related issues at the next meeting – thus shaving two weeks off the project time schedule.

   These are the “other” service providers whose efforts go largely un- noticed but whose dedication to the project is crucial. Their dedication to the project can cut weeks out of a schedule, minimize project complexities and reduce construction costs.

   To all of the “other” service providers, for all of your past (and future) efforts, we do recognize and appreciate your efforts and dedication to our projects. Thank you for your dedication to our projects – no matter how large or small they may be.

Scott Reed IAMC Chair