Respondents are encouraged to think about the theme of the conference when proposing a session.  Sessions tracks are as follows along with suggestions for topics but feel free to go beyond the suggestions:

1. Housing Solutions: Innovative development models, equitable zoning reform, affordability, preventing displacement, unhoused/homeless, ADUs, aging in place, Tax Credit 101, developing a housing program.

2. Mobility: Active transportation, equitable accessible transit, passenger rail, responsible regionalism,  transportation/public health connection, freeways to boulevards, historical context of transportation planning.

3. Upskilling the Profession: Tool kits, people skills, GIS, AI, Diversity & Inclusion in the workplace, engaging diverse communities, disability rights in planning, negotiating tactics.

4. Climate & Resilience: Mitigation, adaptation of the built environment, preparedness, response, & recovery, nature based solutions, protection of vulnerable people/places/systems, sustainable retrofit and rehab.

5. Economic Development: Budgeting, financing, sustainable/resilient economy, transportation/economic development connection, creating opportunities for entrepreneurship equitable funding, policy, and planning.

What Format Should My Session Take?

Participants are encouraged to consider a variety of program formats including moderated discussion, workshops, and case studies in addition to the more traditional presentations and lectures. Conference sessions will be 60 minutes in length.  (Please allow 10 minutes for Q & A.) We encourage organizers to consider the number of speakers carefully.

How Are Sessions Selected?

Proposals selected for the conference will have:

1.  A timely and relevant topic with a well-defined focus and equity at the forefront.

2.  Case study examples and lessons learned, including an honest appraisal of things that didn’t work. 

3.  Descriptions of any innovative uses of technology.

4.  Multiple presenters that can address the same topic from different perspectives (e.g. municipal planner, consultant planner, developer, non-profit partner, etc.)

5.  An explanation of how the session will address the conference theme and track(s).

6. A compelling title and clear description of their presentation.

As you put your presentation together please reflect on the issues of scalability and transferability for different types of communities.

The Conference Planning Committee will review proposals based upon the above criteria and quality of the session proposal, contribution to the mission of the Chapter, content of program goals and outcomes, program delivery style, creativity and all APA CM Eligibility Criteria found at the following link: https://www.planning.org/cm/activities/eligibility/.

How Do I Submit a Conference Session Proposal?

All proposals must be electronically submitted through the following Google Form.  All required fields must be completed.  Proposals should be submitted by May 14, 2024.

For More Information about the Call for Sessions or the conference in general:

Please contact Deb Nemeth - nemethplanning@gmail.com.

Please note: Speakers are not required to have a paid registration for the conference if they are planning to attend their session only.  If planning to attend more than just their session, speakers are required to register to for the conference.