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Official Joint Statement with the Canadian Institute of Planners and the Provincial and Territorial Institutes and Associations
Building healthy and sustainable communities requires a number of policies and directions that challenge and change the status quo. Planners are at the very heart of these initiatives to help develop and safeguard the future of our cities, regions, and country–making our communities better places to live, work, and play. In recent months, the Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP) has seen an increase in public awareness and interest in planning. It is encouraging that citizens are becoming more engaged in these processes, attending public consultations, and participating in online discussions. However, there is a growing concern across the country regarding the treatment of planners in these settings, as well as with the dissemination of misinformation related to planning principles and policies. One such example is the planning concept of the 15-Minute City, also known as “Complete Communities”, which has been subject to particular scrutiny and misunderstanding of its objectives. This has resulted in alarming instances of hostile behaviour and threats towards planners and public servants, disruptive conduct in consultation meetings, and the need for law enforcement interventions. CIP strongly encourages the public to learn more about the planning profession and planning concepts from reliable, fact-based sources, and to maintain a respectful dialogue with planners, as well as with elected officials and other members of the community. Registered Professional Planners (RPPs), Licensed Professional Planners (LPPs), and equivalent fully certified members also adhere to Codes of Professional Conduct and Statements of Values and are strong proponents of public engagement and consultation. Public safety and democratic engagement are fundamental to the well-being of all citizens and the future of our communities.