Back to SearchCompass Kitchener has released its 2023 annual report card, underscoring significant progress in the city's execution of strategic actions from the 2019-2022 plan. Among the evaluated projects, Kitchener's bikeshare program and downtown Kitchener Vision Project exceeded expectations, while pedestrian-first streets, Mill-Courtland Community Centre expansion business case, and customer experience review met expectations. The Civic District Master plan was not assessed due to its evolving nature compared to its initial plan. This marks the third comprehensive evaluation by Compass Kitchener under the previous plan, following earlier reports to City Council in December 2021 and May 2023.
“Having evaluated all 23 of the 2019-2022 Strategic Plan projects completed to date, Compass Kitchener commends the City on the quality of work done, the continued evolution and growing effectiveness of the City’s public consultation processes, and numerous improvements to customer service,” said Compass Kitchener Chair, Judy Stephens Wells. “Despite the major challenges posed by COVID-19, the City has made substantial progress toward achieving the five goals guiding its strategic plan – people-friendly transportation, environmental leadership, vibrant economy, caring community, and great customer service – and successfully returned to pre-pandemic levels of operation and programming.”
In collaboration with Kitchener’s Corporate Leadership team, Compass Kitchener assessed projects based on timing, impact, accountability, and budget criteria. The report card acknowledges Kitchener's significant advancements, with 10 projects meeting and 10 exceeding expectations.
"I am extremely proud of the commitment by City of Kitchener Council and staff in creating an inclusive, connected and vibrant city for everyone,” said Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic. “With several projects exceeding expectations and ongoing improvements to public engagement and customer service, we're delivering on our promise of service excellence and building a city we can all be proud of."
As part of the evaluation process, Compass Kitchener provided their overall reflections and observations on the 2019-2022 Strategic Plan and began looking ahead to areas of continued focus as the city works to implement the goals and actions included in the 2023-2026 strategic plan.
"While we celebrate our achievements, we also recognize the importance of continuous improvement,” said Troy D. Glover, Compass Kitchener Vice Chair. “Our focus on refining key success indicators and prioritizing data-driven decision-making will be crucial as we move forward with the 2023-2026 Strategic Plan. This proactive approach will help us adapt to emerging challenges and opportunities."
Shaped by extensive community engagement, Kitchener’s 2023-206 Strategic Plan prioritizes over 30 actions to align staff and Council toward a unified vision. Already, 18 of 23 actions planned for 2024 are underway, with one completed, demonstrating the City’s ongoing commitment to resident-driven progress.
“I am incredibly proud of the progress Kitchener has made under the 2019-2022 Strategic Plan, achieving high standards despite the challenges of the pandemic,” said Dan Chapman, Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Kitchener. “Our 2023 report card gives us great momentum and confidence as we look to action the vision and goals set out in our 2023-206 strategic plan. With a continued focus on public engagement and a thoughtful and proactive approach to decision-making, we’ll continue to advance our shared community priorities to meet the evolving needs of Kitchener residents.”
See the full Compass Kitchener 2023 report card here. Visit the City’s website for more information on Kitchener’s 2023-2026 Strategic Plan goals and actions.
For more information contact
Shawn Falcao
Manager, Corporate Communications
shawn.falcao@kitchener.ca
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