The Getty Trust had faced strong opposition from concerned neighbors and homeowner associations in its efforts to expand and modernize the Getty Villa in Pacific Palisades.  Dakota Communications was retained to develop and implement a community relations strategy and a media coordination program to reach out to the surrounding neighborhood.  In addition to assisting the Getty Trust in interactions with the City and homeowner associations, Dakota Communications created and distributed a community survey, developed a targeted mail campaign, and submitted editorials to various newspapers.  Our innovative approach to the issue included a door-to-door outreach and education campaign in which we canvassed over 1,000 homes in the Pacific Palisades and Malibu area over two weekends.  Our efforts resulted in a unanimous vote of approval by the Los Angeles City Council.