Implementation Checklist

The table below is a sample implementation checklist to help you develop your local program.

The first and critical task to tackle is the establishment of a planning team of all the key players in council, such as local laws, PR, infrastructure/engineering and so on. This will ensure nothing is overlooked as well as increasing support and promoting ownership of the program.

Implementation Checklist
Establish cross-council planning team.
Set objectives for the program.
Set the dates for your program.
Decide on promotional materials and information to be used in your program - choose materials from this kit to print, purchase free give-aways like bag carriers, prizes and so on.
Decide whether you will seek sponsors for give-aways or prizes. You could try local vets, pet shops and boarding kennels. Local shopping strip traders might also be interested in providing sponsorship because the program will help keep the streets clean.
Investigate partnership opportunities - approach local dog clubs.
Determine whether you will hold a formal launch or a 'soft' launch (announce the program through the media without holding an event).
Prepare briefings for all council staff, councillors and the mayor, as well as anyone in council who interacts with the community.
Investigate deadlines for announcement in internal council documents, e.g. rates notice, newsletter, council column in the local newspaper (e.g. you could include the press advertisement included in this kit, modify media releases, take a selection from the fact sheet).
Begin production of your chosen promotional materials, such as posters, stickers, display, handouts, printing on bag carriers.
Prepare launch (if applicable) - book speakers, entertainment, refreshments, audio equipment, etc.
Contact your local media about advertising and editorial deadlines.
Prepare your council's media release. Create a photo opportunity with the mayor or local laws officer to coincide with issuing the media release.
Contact radio stations seeking radio interviews.
Organise dates and times for public display (if applicable).
Issue media release 1 announcing the start of the crackdown on dog poo litter.
Schedule time across the week (or two), or a special day, to educate dog owners. Provide incentives, such as bag carriers, for non-compliers and don't forget to reward responsible owners.
Remember to keep the media updated on key activities planned throughout your program.
Issue media release 2 announcing the beginning of the enforcement program. Include positive feedback from the previous week.
Hit the streets issuing fines when appropriate. Continue rewarding positive behaviour.
Issue media release 3 announcing the results of the whole program, e.g., how many fines issued, a reduction in the amount of visible dog poo, less complaints to council (& any positive calls). If no irresponsible behaviour detected explain why: dog owners have responded very positively to the program and have picked up their poop!
Further report back in Council's regular newsletter or newspaper column.
Prepare evaluation report for council - compare the number of fines before and during the program, the increase in media coverage, any feedback via council customer service (did complaints drop), visible reduction in dog poo and any other key factors.
Reconvene council planning team to review the evaluation report and begin planning for the next phase of the program (maybe next spring or summer). What went really well, what could have been done better, what wasn't worth doing.