Public engagement

The survey builds on the first round of public engagement in December 2019 and January 2020 to better understand what residents think of existing parks and trails and what they want to see in the future.

Most respondents (72 per cent) said they attached an increased importance to trees and outdoor spaces during the pandemic.

The city said it will use the strategy to gather baseline information about the state of the urban canopy, develop a long-term vision and adopt goals to grow and manage the urban forest.

The 90 minute sessions are scheduled for 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Oct. 27 and will include facilitated discussions, small-group exercises and activities to help determine how and where the multiplex could most benefit the community.

The city said a team of public engagement experts from HDR, Inc. will lead a campaign to inform residents about the project, including hosting in-person open houses or workshops.

“The biggest correlating factor in our area for homelessness is actually just the cost of housing,” said Coun. Scott Harrison.