On Feb. 11, the Alma Mater Society (AMS) at Queen’s University hosted its first University District Summit. The event brought together students, university staff, landlords, local politicians, city staff, and residents to address and share perspectives on a number of topics of mutual concern.

“This was a unique opportunity for stakeholders of the University District and other near-campus neighbourhoods to come together and discuss issues of mutual concern,” says Francis Campbell (Artsci’17), Municipal Affairs Commissioner for the AMS. “We had some excellent discussion to focus on issues and begin to work out potential solutions or recommendations moving forward.”

The summit sought to shed light on a number of issues facing students, local residents and the community at large. Mayor Bryan Paterson was in attendance with City councillors Peter Stroud (Sydenham), Liz Schell (Portsmouth) and Jim Neill (Williamsville), along with senior city staff. In addition, Waterloo Mayor Dave Jaworsky addressed the summit, offering lessons learned from the town-gown relationship between his city and its two universities.

The AMS aims to develop a report highlighting the feedback received during the summit to help guide future discussions on improving quality of life for all district residents.

“I think a lot of people, including myself, are learning a lot about the perspectives of other people; trying to learn or understand the other side of the story,” says Mr. Campbell.

For more information on the Commission of Municipal Affairs, visit the website.