Connecting to our communities is what planning is all about. Whether it is updating a Community Plan, or speaking at a neighborhood event, we speak to Angelenos about issues that affect their everyday lives. Our neighborhood council system in the City of Los Angeles offers us, in particular, a forum by which we get to speak to local stakeholders on a regular basis. This is why I was excited to participate in this year’s Congress of Neighborhoods, which brought together leaders from various neighborhood councils throughout the City. It provided an opportunity for planners, like myself to connect, educate and listen to members of our community. And, this year’s event was truly a success – evident by the fact that it had the largest turnout to date! Attendees from across the City gathered to meet and speak with civic leaders and Department staff in an informal yet interactive setting. Our Department – City Planning – was selected to host two informational sessions...