About the Community Engagement Policy
When the City plans a new project, changes a by-law, or updates a long-term strategy, we need to hear from you. The Community Engagement Policy sets out how we work with residents, business owners, and community groups to make sure your voice shapes Wrenford's future.
Engagement is not a one-time event. It is a process that happens at every stage of a project or policy. We listen first, then we design solutions together, and finally we tell you what we heard and how your input changed the outcome.
How we engage
We use a mix of digital and in-person tools so everyone can participate, no matter where you live or how you prefer to communicate.
- Online feedback tools: Use the Wrenford Voices portal to comment on maps, answer surveys, and upload photos.
- Workshops and charrettes: Hands-on sessions where you help sketch plans or test ideas in real time.
- Public meetings and open houses: Drop-in evenings and scheduled presentations at community centres and City Hall.
- Direct outreach: Mailers, neighbourhood newsletters, and targeted emails for groups most affected by a decision.
- Social media and digital ads: Short updates and quick polls on our official channels.
When we engage
Meaningful engagement happens early. We do not wait until a decision is already made. The standard timeline follows three phases:
- Define the problem: We share background information, draft goals, and ask what matters most to you.
- Explore options: We present two or three possible approaches, explain the trade-offs, and ask for your preferences.
- Confirm direction: We share the preferred option, explain how we used your feedback, and invite final comments before the report goes to Council.
For major policies and capital projects, we hold the public comment period for at least thirty days. Shorter timelines may apply for routine updates or emergency measures, but we will always explain why in the public notice.
How to take part
You do not need to be a planning expert to share your thoughts. Follow these steps to get involved:
- Watch the Public Notices board or sign up for service alerts to see upcoming engagements.
- Visit the project webpage linked in the notice. Read the background brief and download the summary document.
- Complete the survey, drop by a workshop, or email your comments to the project team.
- Check back for the summary report and the final Council report to see how your input was used.
Accessibility and language
We are committed to making participation open to everyone. All public meeting spaces are wheelchair accessible. We provide interpretation services on request, and major documents are available in French, Mandarin, and Punjabi. If you need accommodations or alternative formats, contact the Accessibility Coordinator.
Questions and feedback
Have a question about an active engagement project or want to suggest a better way for us to reach you? Contact the Community Engagement team at [email protected] or call 519-555-0100.