Newport News communications director outlines media kit, portal and outreach for first-responders drone program

Jody Foster, the city’s director of communications, presented a two-part communications packet to the Newport News City Council outlining how officials will inform residents about a planned drones-as-first-responders program.

Foster said the packet includes a media kit for council (sample social posts and a proposed mayor video script), a question-and-answer sheet for public meetings and a full communications plan. "What you have in front of you is two parts. The first part, most importantly for you, council, is a media kit," Foster said, adding that the administration recommends a community launch event beginning June 17.

The communications plan also describes a web presence and a short video featuring both chiefs to visually explain the program, Foster said. She told council the program’s service provider will supply a public-facing portal that logs flight information — types of calls, flight durations and other basic flight data — and that a link will be posted on the city website so residents can review drone activity.

Council members described positive public reaction when the subject was raised at recent neighborhood events. According to council remarks, a recent senior town-hall meeting drew about 60 attendees who initially had questions but left supportive after a presentation by Chief Drew. Council members noted officials told the seniors the drones would not record ambient audio and that the program is designed to supplement response, not replace crews.

Foster said the communications office prepared suggested messaging and tools for council to use in constituent conversations and social channels. She emphasized staff would coordinate messaging with public safety partners and provide the council with a media kit and talking points to answer constituent questions.

The council asked that team members accompany outreach at town halls and other public events so officials can demonstrate how to find program information and apply any relevant services. Foster invited council members to contact her with additional questions and said staff would continue preparing materials ahead of the program launch.