Planning to fail, an HRM strategic plan update

…automobile use to more sustainable modes of transportation, like walking, cycling, and public transit. However, without clear goals, timelines, and accountability measures in place, it’s hard to say if Halifax’s efforts to create a more affordable and sustainable mobility network are actually working.

This lack of clear direction and accountability is a common theme in Halifax’s strategic planning efforts. Without measurable outcomes and a clear roadmap for implementation, it’s no wonder that many of the city’s priorities are either stagnating or moving in the wrong direction. While it’s easy for city staff to report their actions as successes, the reality is that without concrete goals and measures of success, it’s hard to truly gauge the effectiveness of Halifax’s strategic plans.

The upcoming council meeting will be an opportunity for city staff to address these issues and provide more clarity on the progress of Halifax’s strategic plans. Councillor Tony Mancini’s request for a presentation on the city’s strategic planning efforts is a step in the right direction towards improving transparency and accountability within the city’s bureaucracy.

As Halifax continues to grapple with the challenges of implementing its strategic plans, it’s clear that a more evidence-based and systems-level approach is needed. Learning from the successes of cities like Hoboken, New Jersey, Halifax can work towards creating a more effective and sustainable governance model that prioritizes measurable outcomes and accountability.

Ultimately, Halifax’s strategic planning efforts will determine the city’s ability to address pressing issues like climate change, transportation, and diversity and inclusion. By taking a more proactive and evidence-based approach to strategic planning, Halifax can ensure that its policies and initiatives are truly making a positive impact on the community. The upcoming council meeting will be a crucial opportunity for city staff to address these issues and work towards a more sustainable and effective future for Halifax.