Community Activity

I attended an executive meeting of a community association today and learned that the association does not want to be involved in any matters that smack of being “political” in nature. This is perhaps a reflection of some strong personalities who sat on the executive in years gone by.

The City of Ottawa encourages community associations to participate in activities that relate, in particular, to the development approval process leading to “better development and a better city.”

The following is a quotation from “A Community Handbook for the Development Approvals Process”: “The City of Ottawa welcomes and encourages comments from community organizations regarding the planning and development process. Community organizations have an important role to play in the process and can provide practical and useful insights into the potential impacts of the Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments, of subdivisions, commercial and industrial site plans and other planning matters that occur in or near their neighbourhoods.”

There are times when comments are provided and advice given which the community feels is ignored by the city bureaucrats and city councilors. When initiatives of community associations are disregarded, discounted or absolutely ignored then, how can the City expect input even if on paper it is suggested that it is desired? Words on paper mean little if voices are not heard and outcomes are not achieved.

There should be a renewed effort made by all new executive members of community associations to address the topic of community associations’ involvement in matters relating to the City of Ottawa.