2009 Volume 32 Issue 1 Pages 62-73
It is essential to introduce public participation and a consensus-building process in public utilities planning. In order to bring about effective participation, it is important to reply in a meaningful manner by addressing participants' opinions and clarifying their doubts. This paper aimed to analyze the decisions made by the committee for planning the waste treatment plant for the Chushin region in Nagano Prefecture. The following points were clarified through this case study:
(1) The proponent was not able to reply to some of the questions that were raised. However, these questions were later answered in a follow-up session. Through this session, the committee members could make a decision. In this case, meaningful replies were provided.
(2) It is necessary to conduct several meetings as part of a follow-up session. A flexible argument schedule is also required for such sessions.
