Community Forum aims to engage residents in city planning

_ (press release) _ Residents and businesses are invited to engage with City staff at a new event, _ Building Better Connections _ – a community forum organized by the City’s Planning and Growth Management Department.

The forum promises to bring together Ottawa’s residents and provide a space for meaningful discussion on a series of planning topics. In addition, for the first time ever, participants will have the opportunity to engage with city staff and each other on planning issues, via a webcast.

This bilingual event will take place Wednesday, May 4 from 7 to 9 p.m. in Andrew S. Haydon Hall at Ottawa City Hall, 110 Laurier Avenue West. This event will also be webcast live on ottawa.ca/bbc . Questions will be accepted from both live audience members and online participants.

Keynote speaker John Campbell, former President and CEO of the Toronto Waterfront Revitalization Corporation, will discuss community participation and share his experience leading redevelopment projects in the public realm. Following John’s presentation, City staff will offer practical tips for residents with two information sessions – one on the workings of the Committee of Adjustment and one on how to make the most of your five minutes when presenting at a standing committee. Each of the three presentations will be followed by a question-and-answer period.

Seating is limited. Those wishing to attend in person are asked to RSVP before Friday, April 29. Please let us know if you require specific accommodations or arrangements.

The webcast will be recorded and posted to ottawa.ca as soon as it is available, for those unable to take part on the day of the event.

For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca or call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-9656 ). You can also connect with us through Facebook , Twitter and Instagram .