Insights from EngagingCities Masterminds: Exploring Post-Pandemic City Planning and Engagement

EngagingCities Masterminds kicked off with a dynamic first session on October 30, led by Jordan McKenzie, AICP, TCEcD , Director of Community Building and Economic Opportunity for Memphis and Shelby County. This discussion brought together ten city planning professionals from across the globe to address the shifting demands of planning and engagement in a post-pandemic world. From adapting to hybrid work environments and revitalizing urban centers impacted by remote work to leveraging community leaders for effective engagement, participants exchanged insights and regional strategies to foster resilient communities. This initial dialogue sets the stage for continued collaborative learning and innovative approaches to modern city planning and community engagement challenges. Below are key takeaways from the discussion.

Engagement in a Changing World

The pandemic accelerated the adoption of digital engagement tools, but with varied levels of success:

• Janice Hata from Hawaii's Planning Department mentioned the struggle with transitioning to hybrid meeting models yet highlighted the increased accessibility these offer to far-flung communities.
• Janette Campbell from Mississauga, Canada brought up the critical aspect of accessibility in digital platforms, emphasizing the need for all-inclusive systems, particularly for individuals with disabilities.

Successful Strategies for Effective Community Engagement

A noteworthy point was the importance of understanding community dynamics and engaging effectively with community leaders:

• Jordan, along with Heidi Sokolowsky , who is based in San Francisco, noted the value of direct engagement, highlighting strategies like attending community events or consulting with local leaders to ensure inclusive and comprehensive community involvement in planning processes.

Handling Office and Public Counter Operations

Public agencies have had to adapt their counter services to the new normal. Many shared insights into hybrid work models and maintaining service delivery:

• Kevin Leeson from Cuyahoga County, Ohio, and Janice shared their departments' experiences managing public interactions amid changing expectations around in-person and remote working setups.

Community Challenges in a Post-Pandemic Era

One of the central themes of the discussion was the significant changes in urban and rural landscapes since the pandemic. Participants shared various observations:

• Heidi highlighted the struggle of the city with office space vacancies and altered transportation patterns. The shift to working from home left downtown areas deserted, leading to discussions on revitalizing these spaces and recreating an attractive city center.
• Jordan discussed the challenges faced by cities with expansive vacant lands and the strain on suburban and rural areas experiencing sudden population influx due to urban migration.

Final Thoughts 

This insightful conversation surfaced key themes for planners and local government agencies, highlighting lessons that can guide communities in building resilience, inclusivity, and vibrancy as they adapt in a post-pandemic world. Participants expressed enthusiasm for continuing these discussions and exploring new topics in future sessions.

Other attendees included Margarita Assenova , Nadia Dowhaniuk , Kyle Metcalfe , and Chris Haller .

About EngagingCities Masterminds

EngagingCities Masterminds are monthly, moderated online group discussions designed for collaborative learning and support. This interactive forum offers participants a valuable space for peer-to-peer knowledge exchange, where members can share insights, address challenges, and gain practical advice from others in the group.

Moderated by Kelly Hickler, AICP

Sponsored by Konveio