Involve the community from the beginning when planning a project

Well organized communities invariably demand a say on planning and building major projects, so involve them from the beginning rather than deal with the outcry later. Depending on how well organized they are and the merit of their cause, community groups can make or break the best laid plans or at least cause expensive and reputation-threatening havoc. In Harlem, community advocates, leaders and preservationists opposed the rezoning of 125th St. In Downtown Brooklyn, neighborhood associations and residents fought the developer's proposal for Atlantic Yards. In Queens and Washington Heights, low income tenants have accused investors of harassment to achieve turnover in rent stabilized apartments. At Ground Zero, family members of 9/11 victims banded together to block the construction of a museum. When you plan your next project consider the following: 1. Be compassionate from day one; do what's right for all, not just what's right for you. 2. Seek counsel of responsible community members and groups and make them part of the planning process. 3. Be forthright in the media. Explain how your actions benefit the community, not just your business. 4. Above all, listen, listen, listen...and see if there is a way to compromise for the good of all. Harry Zlokower is president of the Zlokower Co., New York, N.Y.