Involving the public in the planning process is the core of the Integrated Resources Plan (IRP).  During the first phase (Integrated Plan for the Wastewater Program - IPWP) of the project, completed in 2001, the City took a proactive role in soliciting public input and involvement. Phase I Focused on defining the future vision for the City by developing a set of guiding principles to direct future, more-detailed water resources planning. Phase II (Integrated Resources Plan - IRP) Focuses on the more detailed planning required developing a facilities plan, environmental impact report and financial plan. The intent of stakeholder involvement process is to be broadly inclusive of interests in the city and region, representing the cultural diversity and spectrum of interests in the City of Los Angeles and its many communities.

Development of the IRP includes three levels of public involvement, each with differing roles and time requirements. These three levels, and their commensurate levels of commitment, are summarized below:

Steering Group Members reflected the majority service area as well as the cultural diversity of the City’s population. Members included repre­sentatives of community groups, envi­ronmental and business organizations, regulatory agencies, contract cities and policy makers including several City of LA Council Offices. These individuals made a commitment to actively and directly participate in detailed planning and alternatives development, which ultimately resulted in an Approved Alternative and the associated Capital Improvements Program and imple­mentation plan.

Members of this group attended a total of 13 half-day workshops. The Steering Group had two basic roles:

• Provide an on-going input on a regular basis on technical, environmental and financial development of the project, and
• Consider key project issues, such as facilities location, implementation risks, and acceptability of costs that will invariably arise during the project.

Members reviewed materials provided, and prepared themselves in advance of the workshops. Members informed their colleagues within the organizations, companies, and agencies they represented about the major milestones and recommendations of the planning efforts.

Steering Group Workshops

Advisory Group Members had a high level of interest in the IRP and commit­ted to take part in a series of quarterly, two-hour meetings within their com­munities. Advisory Group members shared ideas and concerns about the alternatives, and provided advice and feedback to the Steering Group. Advi­sory Group meetings were conducted at seven locations, four times between February 2003 and April 2004. The content was the same for each series of meetings, but was repeated at separate venues throughout the City to provide convenient access for residents and gather area-specific feedback. Interac­tive exercises at these meetings encour­aged participants to ask questions and provide suggestions.

Information Group Members are interested parties invited to stay informed of the facilities planning effort.  Members of this group received periodic newsletters to inform them of major milestones and recommendations of the IRP effort.