Jonathan Cha
A multidisciplinary background
Originally from Montreal and father of two boys, I am a landscape architect, urban planner, and doctor of spatial planning and urbanism, having graduated from the University of Montreal, UQAM, INRS, the Paris Institute of Urban Planning at the University of Paris-Est, and the City University of New York. As a specialist in cities, heritage, and public spaces, I have held a variety of positions throughout my career.
As an expert in cities, heritage, and public space, I’ve had a number of different professional roles:
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University professor (I’ve taught courses in landscape architecture, environmental design, urbanism, and heritage for more than 20 years at Université de Montréal, UQAM, and McGill University)
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Consultant (I’ve been involved in the research and design of many public spaces in Montreal, including Mount Royal Park, Place d’Armes, Dorchester Square, and Phillips Square)
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Volunteer with community group that worked to preserve and gain heritage status for Montreal’s Chinatown
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Advisor for over a decade to key consultation processes in Montreal related to architecture, urban planning, and heritage (i.e., CCU du Sud-Ouest, Jacques-Viger committee)
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Expert for 20 local and national prize juries related to the fields of landscape architecture, the arts, design, and heritage
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Principal advisor and team leader for Parc Jean-Drapeau's 2020-2030 Conservation, Design and Development Plan
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Director of Projects in an architectural firm and manager of the team responsible for the planning of the Grand parc de l’Ouest in the West Island
Expertise in Public Governance and Strategic Planning
As a former member of eight boards of directors (including the Association of Landscape Architects of Quebec, Park People (Toronto), the Festival international de jardins des Jardins de Métis, and Les amis de la montagne), I have reviewed mission and vision statements, established organizational priorities, and participated in strategic planning and reporting activities.
My experiences in both the public and private sectors has allowed me to develop:
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Expertise in public consultation and in citizen-based approaches
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Skill with the development and implementation of strategic mandates and vision plans
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Knowledge of governance practices (including those that guide the relation of a Director General to elected officials)
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A significant network of nongovernmental and governmental partners
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Experience with media interviews, press releases, and communications
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High-level understanding of the plans, politics, and strategies of the City of Montreal and the Urban Agglomeration
An Engaged Citizen
Since my arrival in Montreal West, I have worked to restore my heritage home, while also involving myself in the community as:
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A member of the Planning Advisory Committee (PAC) of Montreal West
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A member of the coaching team for Mudhens baseball in Montreal West
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A member of the executive committee of the Montreal West Horticultural Society
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A member of Citizens for Safe Transit (CFST)
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A volunteer for the community garden at St. Philip’s Church
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A member of the Montreal West Curling Club
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A member of the Montreal West Tennis Club