Driven by Community for Community: The new age of community planning

Community infrastructure and program planning is increasingly adopting a community-first approach, where members actively participate in decision-making to achieve the best outcomes. Communities are taking control of their futures, with strong engagement leading the process. Imagine a planning method where history, culture, health, language, well-being, and future aspirations are seamlessly integrated—this is Comprehensive Community Planning (CCP). While more commonly used by First Nations communities, CCP is a valuable tool for addressing key planning areas such as governance, land and resources, health, infrastructure development, culture, social issues, and the economy.

When considering an infrastructure project or a large-scale program, it's important to consider the CCP model, which incorporates these critical planning areas. High engagement in this process can lead to more sustainable outcomes.

1. Engagement is essential: Community input brings new ideas and drives actionable goals, particularly when there is broad ownership of both the process and outcomes. “Community” in this context includes not just leadership but a vertically integrated representation that ensures credibility and inclusivity. It's important to engage a diverse array of participants, including youth, community groups, elders, economic development entities, administration, and business owners. Additionally, communication methods should be tailored to meet the needs of vulnerable groups , ensuring their participation in the process. Methods to increase participation might include community meetings, surveys, newsletters, focus groups, and home visits.
2. ?The initial visioning process is invaluable: Working with community members to understand their vision for the future sets the foundation for the CCP. Key questions to explore include: “How do you see your community 50 years from now?” “How do you envision development on your land?” “What are the most cherished traditions you want to preserve?”
3. CCP promotes sustainable outcomes: Involving the community throughout the process fosters ownership and commitment to the outcomes, whether it’s an infrastructure project or program delivery. Through CCP, communities can shape their future, prioritize key areas, and create sustainable economic opportunities for their members during both the design and construction phases.
4. Four key phases in the CCP process: There are four key areas to consider when developing a CCP:

Pre-planning: In this phase, the community sets up an execution team, develops a work plan, and begins socializing the engagement process to boost participation.

Planning: This is the most community-focused phase, where the vision and plan are defined, including specific activities and projects along with an implementation strategy. The outcome is a comprehensive CCP.

Implementation: Here, projects are prioritized, and work plans, feasibility studies, environmental approvals, and other necessary steps are taken, leading to the execution of capital projects.

Monitoring and evaluation: It's crucial to revisit the original vision and assess whether the CCP and its associated capital projects are delivering the desired impacts. This phase might involve internal adjustments, such as regular community planning check-ins, continuous alignment of planning with community needs, and appointing a leader to ensure ongoing alignment.

There are many resources available to support a CCP process, including the Government of Canada’s CCP Handbook for First Nations in British Columbia, which provides several examples of successful implementation, and worksheets to deliver this process.

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