Strategic Plan Update - WA APA Chapter Survey

Denise Lathrop, AICP, Vice President

At the close of 2019, the Chapter finalized results from a survey intended better understand membership views on the programs and activities that should be a part of the Chapter Strategic Plan. The survey asked about section representation, educational and program priorities, satisfaction with membership benefits, preferred methods of communication and interest in volunteering with the Chapter or Sections. 

Of the 135 respondents, 49 percent represented the Puget Sound Section, followed by the Northwest Section (14%), Inland Empire Section (13%), South Puget Sound Section (10%), Columbia Section (10%), and Peninsula Section (4%). Sixty percent of the respondents work in the public sector with the remaining working in the private sector, non-profits and other. A prioritization of Chapter programs and activities ranked the conference as the highest priority, followed by AICP trainings/certification, legislative policy, quarterly section planner forums, and general coordination with members. There was also strong interest in the Chapter’s strategic planning, social events, and community outreach efforts. 

In the survey, a number of people expressed an interest in becoming more involved with the Chapter or their sections, however, the survey did not capture their names and contact information. Currently, the Chapter is seeking participants on the Communication committee, Membership committee, Sponsorship committee (Marketing/Advertising), and Climate and Sustainability Initiative. The Chapter has also offered an Emerging/Young Planners group in the past and we would like to identify some leadership to help that group get reestablished.

If you are interested in serving on a committee or getting involved in a special project, please contact Denise Lathrop at [email protected].