With contract talks proceeding between the state of Alaska and the North Slope producers for fiscal terms for a natural gas pipeline, preparations are beginning for the task of explaining that contract to the state’s residents.
The contract and a best interest finding will be issued, and the governor’s office is looking for a firm to handle the education campaign. Letters of interest are due July 29.
A July 25 public notice said the state is looking for firms interested in providing a short-term, immediate educational public awareness statewide campaign to educate Alaska residents on the terms and conditions of the North Slope natural gas contract, with the campaign “estimated” to begin in August and “expected to conclude within four months.”
The governor’s office is looking for an Alaska firm and the project would require a full-time staff including a senior level account supervisor, media relations specialist, copywriter, art director, media buyer and scheduler.
The firm must have the ability to sign a confidentiality agreement and “may not have a current relationship with a company in negotiations with the state on the gas pipeline or with a company who is seeking to acquire North Slope gas,” the state said.
Experience in statewide multi-media public policy campaigns is required.
The firm selected must be able to begin work in August to develop an education/awareness campaign and will design and produce all communication tools — including print, radio and TV ads; brochures; electronic presentations; media relations plan; and a statewide speakers bureau.
There will be hearings on a proposed contract and public comments will be taken. Based on those comments, the state may renegotiate.
A final contract will go to the Alaska Legislature for an up or down vote, expected in a special session later this year.
