Active listening is foundational to the way Cheniere fosters goodwill and trust in the communities where it operates.
A perfect example of this can be found in Cameron Parish, La., home to Sabine Pass Liquefaction (SPL) and where Cheniere has for many years hosted community focus group meetings to engage with parish members.
These quarterly meetings provide a structured space for community members to share perspectives, ask questions and discuss issues that matter most to them.
“Our primary goal is to hear directly from community members about their priorities, concerns, and opportunities they see for the future and answer their questions with credibility and transparency and find ways to work collaboratively,” said Amy Miller, Cheniere’s Director of Local Government and Community Affairs and a Cameron Parish native. “By fostering two-way communication, we strengthen relations built on trust, transparency and mutual respect.”
Cameron Parish, located in Southwest Louisiana, has been home to Cheniere operations for nearly two decades, dating to SPL’s days as an LNG import terminal and before it became the first terminal in the contiguous United States to export LNG commercially in 2016.
The parish is Louisiana’s largest geographically but smallest by population, with nearly 5,000 residents spread across more than 1,900 square miles. It is a rural, coastal community defined by marshes, beaches, commercial fishing, ranching and deep connections to Cajun heritage. Today, it plays an outsized role in America’s LNG industry, as it is home to two other liquefaction facilities, with two others under construction.
At a recent community focus group meeting at a local fire station, community members discussed cumulative industry traffic concerns, a delay in rebuilding a local water tower and the upcoming community-wide beach cleanup with SPL representatives, who, in turn, updated the group on site operations and initiatives.
Over the years, community focus group feedback has helped Cheniere prioritize investments that address genuine community needs, such as supporting emergency responders and reviving a holiday festival.
“What began as a way for the community to get to know Cheniere has grown into something much more impactful,” said Michele Long, Cameron Parish resident and community focus group member. “It has created an environment where we not only connect but actively support one another. When people listen to one another and work together, meaningful processes happen.”
Cheniere has brought economic development to the parish and region through more than $20 billion in infrastructure investment, job creation and significant community investments.
Beyond that, the company is regarded as a trusted community partner and leader that continues to build long-term support and impact.
“Connecting with the community on this level is invaluable,” said Jack Holden, Vice President and General Manager at SPL. “We’re able to hear firsthand the needs of the surrounding area, offer ways to be a better neighbor and continue building trust.”