2024 Welcoming Remarks

Meredith Cooper, RPP, MCIP
President, API

Welcome to the 2024 Atlantic Planners Institute conference in beautiful Saint John! As we gather along the stunning shores of the Bay of Fundy, home to the world’s highest tides, we find inspiration for our theme: “Rising Tides.” This theme resonates deeply with our current times, reflecting on the natural wonders around us and the waves of change and challenges we face as planners.

Over the past years, Atlantic Canada has experienced significant growth and transformation. We have seen a surge in population and development, as more people discover the exceptional quality of life our region offers. This growth brings opportunities and challenges, requiring us to adapt and innovate our planning practices.

Of particular note is the housing crisis and the need for affordable housing opportunities in response to growth and changing economic conditions. Planners are at the forefront of helping to ensure individuals and families can find affordable places to live within their chosen communities, facing increasing pressure to be innovative and responsive to community housing needs and funding programs.

At the same time, we are confronted with the urgent need to address climate change. The rising tides remind us of the pressing environmental issues that demand our attention and action. Our profession is at the forefront of creating resilient, sustainable communities that can withstand these challenges while enhancing the quality of life for all residents.

This year’s conference is an opportunity to explore these themes through engaging presentations and discussions. We will delve into the complexities of population growth, affordable housing, the impacts of climate change, and the intricate challenges facing our communities. Our sessions will showcase innovative approaches to planning that respect the diversity of needs, values, and aspirations within our communities.

Most importantly, this conference provides a chance for us to come together, share knowledge, network, and support one another. Whether you are meeting new colleagues or reconnecting with old friends, the connections we make here are invaluable.

I am thrilled to welcome you to Saint John and look forward to the inspiring conversations and ideas emerging from our time together. Let’s embrace the “Rising Tides” and work toward a future that is vibrant, equitable, and resilient.

Jennifer Kirchner, RPP, MCIP
Conference Co-Chair

The 2024 Rising Tides Conference is appropriately situated in a City known for its extreme tides. The dedicated volunteers who have been planning this conference hope that the diverse range of topics will inspire an exchange of knowledge that will help you change the course of your community. The City of Saint John is excited to welcome you, and I hope you have the opportunity to explore this beautiful, historic city.

Fredrick Van Rooyen, RPP, MCIP
Conference Co-Chair

The Atlantic Planners Institute conference is always a wonderful opportunity to come together and reflect on the complex challenges facing our communities. Whether it be waves of population growth, the tides of climate change, or headwinds of the housing crisis, “Rising Tides” looks to explore these themes in greater depth and find solutions to help strengthen our communities. On behalf of all those involved in planning the conference, welcome to Saint John!

Land Acknowledgement

Dave Smith

Dave has a unique point of view on Indigenous culture as a result of growing up outside the First Nations community due to the “60’s scoop”. This “two-eyed seeing” approach allows him to see both sides of the relationship between Canada and his people and he has a passion to learn as much as he can to help facilitate better relationships between the two Nations as well as reclaiming his own culture. This unique position affords him a point of view that allows him to share his culture and its history from an understanding that is uncommon. Dave is passionate about reclaiming his culture and sharing it with you.

During this presentation Dave will provide a land acknowledgement and share a brief story that will spark discussion about reconciliation amongst delegates.