The Paris Independent
5
November 6, 2021
REVIEW PROJECTS, FORUMS, VIDEOS ONLINE Continued from Page 4 So how does the EngageBrant work? Connor explained “When a project requires input and engagement from the County’s residents, we prepare the project on EngageBrant. We prepare the content so it is easy to understand (as some projects are very technical in nature). Preparing the project page also includes choosing the most suitable engagement tools. These may include a survey, quick poll, forum, question and answers, ideas/concept sharing, comments and/or plotting on a map.” Recognizing that videos often catch a viewer’s eye, EngageBrant aims to provide a short video for most projects to help boost engagement and interest. They also utilize local media to help spread the word. Once feedback is collected, staff review the information and bring forward trends, ideas, and other comments to help shape the final recommendations and reports, said Connor. Current projects of interest in Paris include the Market Street Reconstruction, Mile Hill Meadows Park, the Paris Flood Mitigation, Barker’s Bush Trails Master Plan, the Master Transportation Plan and the Cedar Street Road construction and stormwater management.
Long-term projects affecting the quality of life of its residents include the New Master Plan, the Age Friendly Community Plan and the Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan. When you click on a specific project, you get an overview of the project,- and information about the individual leading the project, you can review feedback submitted by likeminded citizens, you can provide your own feedback, or you watch a short video on the project. All documentation from meetings is posted, as well as a timeline indicating how far the project has progressed. “EngageBrant, by design, is intuitive to navigate,” said Connor, who added that its convenience has bolstered community participation in virtual public meetings. Between January 18 to November 1, EngageBrant has received a total 9,440 total visits and 6,400 people have visited at least one project page. There are a total of 808 registrants and 408 people have engaged in a survey or forum. The most popular website tools are the ‘ideas, survey and guest book,’ pages. The top three projects based on engagement include the AgeFriendly Community Plan, the New Official Plan and the
Transportation Master Plan. One of the first engagements launched in February was the Age-Friendly Community Plan. Hard copy flyers were mailed to residents throughout the County of Brant and the surveys were available online as well. Over 700 individuals provided input and the results were compiled into a Stakeholder Consultation Workbook that was reviewed by all relevant departments and community organizations for further feedback.
“Age-Friendly Communities are organized around eight domains, as established by the World Health Organization,” explained Connor. “Through engagement and within these domains, the County of Brant identified 66 objectives to improve the quality of life for older adults (specifically those aged 55 and over).” To learn more about projects affecting you, or to register to become involved and provide your feedback, please visit https://engagebrant.ca
