Summer 2025 Exchange Magazine - Plotting your Course with Strategic Planning


The summer 2025 issue of Exchange magazine "Plotting your Course with Strategic Planning” is now available. BC local governments began to adopt strategic plans roughly 25 to 30 years ago as a means to navigate the expanding scope and complexity of their work. Over time, these plans have become essential for priority-setting and decision-making in the face of rising service demands, expanding responsibilities, economic uncertainty and the impact of decisions by other bodies and levels of government. While today’s strategic plans tend to be more streamlined and user-friendly than their earlier counterparts, the process to develop them continues to be complex and time-consuming. 


In this issue, we explore the topic of strategic planning, which has become an increasingly crucial tool for local governments. In our feature article, we discuss key considerations and provide advice on developing and implementing a strategic plan. Also included in this issue is helpful guidance on strategic plan communications, and case studies showcasing inspiring examples of strategic planning from three B.C. local governments. Along with our regular features and other LGMA updates, we have a packed edition to add to your summer reading list.