Mastering Land Use Politics: Dealing with NIMBYs, YIMBYs, and Covert Operatives is a no-nonsense guide to navigating the political minefields of real estate development. Drawing on over three decades of frontline experience, Patrick F. Fox reveals the strategies behind winning approvals, dealing with opposition, and managing public perception. Whether you’re a developer, consultant, or policymaker, this book provides the tools you need to succeed in an era where good projects still lose — and where the real battles are fought outside the hearing room. With both a strategic playbook and insider storytelling, “Mastering Land Use Politics” offers a clear-eyed look at the realities of development today and the tools you need to win the fight.
Patrick F. Fox is one of the nation’s foremost authorities on land use politics. As CEO of Consensus Strategies and former President of The Saint Consulting Group, he has advised on more than 2,000 development and infrastructure projects across the U.S. and abroad. With a reputation for uncovering hidden opposition and running political-style campaigns for project approvals, Fox brings unmatched insight into how land use decisions are really made — and how to influence them.
Consensus Strategies is a national consulting firm specializing in land use politics, strategic advocacy, and public opinion research. From zoning battles to market entry campaigns, we help clients secure approvals, manage risk, and shape public discourse. With deep political expertise and data-driven strategy, we turn controversial projects into successful outcomes.
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Knowing the mechanics can only take you so far, Fox gives the information you really need to get your deal done."