An intelligent response to the above...
Inclusive decisions vital
The Star Phoenix May 28, 2009
Innovation can be about creating something new or solving a chronic problem in a new way.
As Gerry Klein notes in Open innovation council needed (SP, May 21), Saskatoon has shown remarkable spurts of achievements and innovation. While we all directly or indirectly enjoy the benefits, the current process of choosing a path for development predictably anoints winners and losers. We need to be innovative about how we live, work and make decisions together about what's best for the community.
Civic issues require more than backroom conversations and council chamber debates. Both are necessary for progress, but aren't sufficient on their own.
A strength of Saskatoon is the desire for civic participation. However, this city needs an environment that fosters dialogue and learning, so that informed decisions can be made on tough choices and use of resources.
We cannot be content with government-driven community consultation processes. Too often these leave a trail of unanswered questions and assumptions, and lack critical information and perspectives from some stakeholders.
Creating another council isn't the solution; it would become just another "in" group. If we are to learn from other communities, consider the model developed in Vancouver through partnership with Simon Fraser University.
The Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue was designed for meetings and conferences, and has a full range of supports, technologies and programs that facilitate dialogue and participation by all sectors on community issues.
Locating such a facility in the centre of Saskatoon would communicate a powerful message to the world and ourselves about who we are and how things get done in this amazing community.
Dennis Chubb
Saskatoon
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