Process Feedback

The following is a letter I've sent to the council inspired by the notice I recieved about the presentation of the third OCP draft. I realize that it's a bit long but I wanted to share it to see if there is any general community support for this type of model - please let us know by adding comments. My interpretation of some of Smart Growth's material is that they are willing to do a half or full day workshop if their expenses are covered (no additional fee). Might be somewhere to start?

Your Worship and Members of Council:

I want to begin with a sincere thank you for the recent efforts you have made to keep Summerlanders more informed on municipal issues. The open houses and notes included with utility bills are raising the profile of current topics of concern. I am writing to encourage you to take communication to the next level of two way dialogues in addition to the top-down briefings. I was disappointed to see that after all the interest and feedback generated by the previous open house a third draft of the OCP is going to be “presented” to the citizens, not allowing for participation.

The process as it now stands is causing many citizens of widely differing viewpoints to feel alienated and driven to create special interest groups in an effort to be heard. This reactionary approach often creates the unfortunate position of only being able to raise concerns after decisions have been made and publicized. This process increases the competitive and antagonistic nature of politics and does not strengthen community.

There are models of more effective community participation that we can access that will encourage discussion and consensus building. One potential option is the Smart Growth on the Ground program which has a well defined ideology and detailed model for planning that assumes multiple interest groups. Smart Growth is a non-profit organization that plays a consulting style of role to progressive municipalities. Communities may apply to participate only with the support of their municipal council and are chosen based on clear criteria, which I believe Summerland can satisfy.

As a social worker I appreciate that this type of process will be more time consuming and challenging as it is explored but I believe that it will be rewarded with a stronger and more supportive community. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
Tannis Hiebert

Links:

• An overview of Smart Growth on the Ground program
  
• Their principles
  
• The process
  
• Squamish's brochure explaining the process and motivation