Strategic Planning in Local Government: A Comparative Study of Kocaeli and Ontario London

Abstract

This study examines the function of strategic planning at the metropolitan level in the context of the complex management responsibilities imposed on local governments by global dynamics, comparing the examples of Kocaeli (2025-2029) and Ontario London (2023-2027). The significance of the research stems from its attempt to answer the question of whether strategic plans are merely a legal requirement or an effective management tool that enhances urban vision, participation, and service quality. The aim of the study is to analyse the strategic planning approaches of two metropolitan administrations with different administrative and legal structures in terms of mission-vision, strategic priorities, performance indicators, participation, monitoring-evaluation, and sustainability-innovation dimensions. Using a qualitative research approach, secondary data analysis and descriptive analysis methods, the official strategic plan documents of both municipalities were thematically examined, and similarities and differences were identified. The findings reveal that Ontario London offers an integrated and measurable governance model that stands out in strategic partnerships, innovative economic development policies, and sustainable growth planning, while Kocaeli demonstrates strong performance in developing a vision for environmental sustainability, infrastructure investments, and service-oriented digital transformation. In particular, Kocaeli's approach of collecting large-scale data from stakeholders during the planning process and sharing this data transparently stands out as a concrete example of the principle of participation. This reinforces the importance of data-driven policy-making in local governments. In this context, the study offers a unique comparative analysis of the effects of strategic planning in different contexts on urban management capacity.