MEDIA RELEASE (October 13, 2017) Every year, the Ontario Professional Planners Institute (OPPI) recognizes extraordinary service and significant contribution to the Institute by its membership. During last week’s OPPI conference in Collingwood, ON, Kira Dolch, Associate Director, Planning and Development Services, received the prestigious Member Service Award.

“Kira’s Membership Service Award is a reflection of her commitment to the planning profession and her continuing efforts to promote good planning through leadership and education,” said Rick Brady, Director, Planning and Development Services.

With close to 20 years of experience, Dolch has contributed substantially to the planning profession as a volunteer for OPPI committees and activities. In addition to being a member of OPPI since 2000, she has dedicated her time and energy to the Western Lake Ontario District since its inception, serving for three years as chair (2013- 2016). Dolch also excels at engaging members at District events and bringing quality learning opportunities to the planning profession. Prior to this, she was a member of OPPI’s Municipal Affairs and Housing Working Group, and Policy Review Subcommittee.

“From working groups to hosting learning events to becoming a District Chair, the OPPI has provided me with many opportunities throughout my career to promote good land use planning. It’s a true honour to be recognized by the people who make up this amazing institution,” said Dolch.

The OPPI represents over 4,000 professional planners and over 500 student members, who work for government, private industry, community agencies and academic institutions in a variety of specialties across the province. It is a not-for-profit Ontario Corporation and is funded entirely by membership fees, program and activity revenues.

As the recognized voice of Ontario’s planning profession, the OPPI has the Mandate to grant the RPP designation, govern the rights and responsibilities of its members, and set academic, experience and examination requirements for membership. The OPPI Professional Code of Practice and Standards of Practice set the benchmark for quality practice among quality planning professionals. For more information about the OPPI, please visit ontarioplanners.ca.

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Contact: Janine Tessmer, Communications Advisor
Phone: 905-871-1600, ext. 2217