HomeMy WebLinkAboutCompass Kitchener - 2023_07_05 COMPASS KITCHENER ADVISORY COMMITTEE MINUTES
July 5, 2023 CITY OF KITCHENER
The Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee met this date, commencing at 4:05 p.m.,
Present: J. Stephens-Wells, Chair
K. Brabazon, T. Glover, A. Forstmanis, L. Thompson, W. Rahimi, L. Trumper and J. Young
Staff: A. Fritz-Walters, Engagement Program Manager—Strategic Planning
A. Remillard, Committee Administrator
1. Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof—NIL
2. Indicator Development Process—Progress Update
A. Fritz-Walters shared an update on the progress of the Indicator Development process and
explaining we are looking for ways to develop indicators of metrics.
Compass Kitchener members were asked the following:
o How might Compass Kitchener be involved in developing indicators and metrics?
o What should we be thinking about as we identify indicators and metrics from a resident
perspective?
o What ideas do you have for Compass Kitchener's Annual Report Card/Evaluation
moving forward?
The group discussed ways Compass Kitchener could be involved and J. Stephens-Wells
suggested that there are three broad timeframes for providing input:
o Option 1 - Develop something in advance that seeps into the process
o Option 2- Participate throughout the process
o Option 3- Respond to what's been developed
Members agreed moving forward, there could be a place to bring a proposal for review,
consideration, and input at the indicator stage and again at the metric stage. Their primary
preference for Compass Kitchener would be as a review panel at key points in time where
decisions are being made to ensure we stay aligned with the plan. T. Glover indicated, if
there's a strong desire to have someone come from Compass Kitchener to be part of a group,
he would volunteer.
J. Stephens-Wells asked the group to please reach out if anything comes up that they wish
to add.
3. Report to Council—Discuss Key Points for Delegation
J. Stephens-Wells discussed with the group the process of delegation when the report comes
to Council; noting Compass Kitchener has no report, and there will only be enough time to
share 2-3 key points.
J. Stephens-Wells listed the following key points the group had identified previously:
o Process of consensus-building,
o positive social-learning opportunity,
o value of ideas collected and responses back from staff.
o Kitchener as a model for other cities.
o Also, to encourage the City to keep Angie in her role given her effectiveness in
facilitating public engagement throughout this strategic planning process
J. Stephens-Wells asked the group if there were any other key points to add
A. Fritz-Walters suggested Compass Kitchener could comment on the draft Strategic Plan.
T. Glover asked A. Fritz-Walters if 2 timeslots would be needed, and A. Fritz-Walters advised
she would confirm with the Clerk's Office.
COMPASS KITCHENER ADVISORY COMMITTEE MINUTES
July 5, 2023 -2- CITY OF KITCHENER
J. Stephens-Wells commented that the key question that stands out in her mind is what is
the best example of how resident engagement can work?
J. Stephens-Wells also noted that this experiment of engaging citizens in the Residential
Panel, to provide input into the development of the Strategic Plan, stands as a great example
of a well-organized and effective public engagement process.
L. Thompson commented that the community-building aspect was notable; residents really
enjoyed the community involvement. T. Glover agreed with L. Thompson and mentioned the
social-learning piece. A. Fritz-Walters suggested that's what they may wish to speak to in
terms of their participation in it; noting contributing to the development of the plan is a new
piece of public engagement.
A. Fritz-Walters mentioned Compass may wish to delegate again, that there's potential for
that.
J. Stephens-Wells pointed out that in terms of public engagement, with the development of
his plan we had he survey, sessions in community centres, engage activity, street interviews
and the resident-panel with which Compass Kitchener has been involved. As a result, there
has been much more public input into the process than 4 years ago. It would be helpful to
bring that message to Council.
L. Trumper commented that highlighting the amount of work is important as well. A. Fritz-
Walters agreed with L. Trumper.
A. Fritz-Walters asked the group what are the biggest key points to put value on?
A. Fritz-Walters suggested that someone from the group should speak at Committee on
August 14 and the group to be there to support the presenter.
T. Glover indicated he will get back to J. Stephens-Wells about his availability to co-present
at Council with her.
4. Other Business
Previous Minutes- reviewed
5. Next Meetings
August meeting is scheduled as planned.
6. Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 5:20 pm.
A. Remillard
Committee Administrator