In this stage, it is between the company and the community to see if they can jointly wind up at the same place.
The goals of this stage are to:
- Complete the development of the giveback package.
- Answer any lingering questions about the project and gain acceptance of (or at least tolerance for) it. Endorsement of the large project is not required.
- Leave the working relationship between the company and the community members in good shape.
These goals have both the immediate need to move forward on the project and the long-term need to build strong relationships with the affected parties. Coming out of the process without both of these goals met would not be acceptable.
The group has the power to conclude the session or not. If participants are not satisfied with the results or need more information, or want to keep talking, there is no closure and the process continues. If, on the other hand, the group agrees to the givebacks (verbally or in writing, but not through silence or acquiescence), the process achieves closure.
When the facilitator can see a result that would satisfy each key player, it’s time to move to the stage of respectful closure.