Join our year-long conversation (column)

London Community News

We’re having a conversation in London about how we are going to plan the future of our city and everyone is encouraged to take part in the process. The conversation is called ReThink London and it’s resulting in some exciting and dynamic ideas. ReThink is a year-long conversation that looks at our priorities when it comes to the future of our neighbourhoods, workplaces, community facilities, parks, and transportation. The ReThink process kicked off in May with a very successful launch at the London Convention Centre with host Peter Mansbridge.  Since then, there have been workshops and presentations including the “Your Vision, Your Future” sessions held on June 23. Many additional events are in the planning stages in this year-long process to develop a new master plan for London. The ReThink conversation is divided into five different general themes. Everyone is encouraged to consider “How We Green” – including how London can become a more resource-efficient and environmentally sustainable community. Under the topic “How We Grow”, we consider how London can grow in more affordable and sustainable ways. “How We Prosper” looks at how we attract and create new business opportunities in London, while “How We Live” examines the best way to enhance the quality of life in our city. Finally, “How We Move” considers how to improve transportation and accessibility. The community input received in the development of ReThink London will inform decisions made by politicians and city planners every day, and is critical in this master planning initiative. The goals and directions we set as a community over the next year will determine how we live, grow, green, move, and prosper as a city over the next 20 years and beyond. By connecting these five themes, we can build a city that provides an urban lifestyle that is second to none. London residents will have many opportunities to get involved in ReThink London. The ReThink London team will be hosting several events, have a presence at community events and in popular public spaces.  Social media is another tool the City is using to engage citizens. Our goal is to hear from as many people as possible over the year-long process. Your participation in ReThink London is important. Take a couple of minutes to offer your ideas and help shape your city’s future. You can participate in the following ways: •Directly through the website: www.ReThinklondon.ca •Email: rethink@london.ca •Phone: 519-661-4980 •Twitter: @rethinkldn ReThink is an ­opportunity for you to help define the kind of City London is now and will be in the future. Canada Day Celebrations in Northwest London: The West Park Church and Northwest London Resource Center’s 2nd annual Northwest London Celebrates Canada BBQ and fireworks event is on June 30 from 6 to 10:30 p.m. More information is available at www.westpark.on.ca. Coffee With Matt: On June 30, I will be at the Sherwood Forest Mall Tim Horton from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Please stop by and have a chat. If you are not able to make this date, there will be additional informal meetings like this scheduled in the months to come. Ward 7 Councillor Matt Brown can be contacted at mbrown@london.ca, by phone at 519-661-2500, ext. 4597 (city hall) or 226-448-8548 (home office). You can also link to his Facebook and Twitter accounts from www.matthewbrown.ca.