Kitchener seeks public input developing new strategic plan

It’s an election year for municipal councils and there is a lot of work to get done before expected shake-ups in October.

For Kitchener City Council, one of those projects is the 2027-2030 Strategic Plan. The current plan expires at the end of the year.

The plan helps guide decision making for councils when it comes to both long – and short-term projects. The information gathered comes from a variety of sources but perhaps most importantly, from the public.

The process has reached the stage where public consultation is underway.

That process began with a report to council that detailed the results of an Abacus Data survey. It asked 861 Kitchener residents questions about safety, satisfaction with city services and main concerns.

The data showed 70 per cent of residents say they are satisfied with City services – higher than the national average of 54 per cent.

Results also showed 80 per cent felt safe in their neighbourhoods and 70 per cent plan to stay in the city for the next five years.

Not surprisingly though, cost of living and affordability were resident’s top concerns.

Kitchener City Staff have planned several opportunities for the public to be involved.

Mayor Berry Vrbanovic was a guest on The Mike Farwell Show where he touted the Resident Panel as a way to get involved.

“This is for people that want to dig in deep and be part of deep deliberations where they will learn about issues, discuss trade-offs and help shape priorities for future council and the future term of council,” said Vrbanovic. He added, “this is really about bringing everyday residents together to think deeply about the community’s future.”

The mayor went on to say, “first time participants are encouraged. It’s open to anyone who lives, works, studies, or owns property in Kitchener, is open minded and willing to learn and listen and can collaborate with others.” He added, most importantly, “We’re not looking for experts in policy, planning or government. We just need people who are passionate and care about the community.”

Vrbanovic noted that not everyone has time or desire for something as in-depth as the resident panel – so it’s important they try to meet the residents where they are.

“We want to support conversations at places like faith-based locations, organizational hubs, community centres and other trusted spaces across the city.”

He reiterated how important it is that the public helps inform decision making.

“We believe that, through this process, because we’ve seen it work with other projects like Kitchener 2051 and the Victoria Park Master Plan. Community works best when residents help shape it. This is an opportunity for people to do that. No experience required, just a passion for the community.”

The city will continue the planning process throughout 2026 with multiple opportunities to get involved.

Residents can find more information, including dates and times at Engage Waterloo Region.

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