The following does not represent a rush to "solutions" but rather some process suggestions to begin what will likely be very different paths for cities.

Our focus needs to be upon learning the most effective conditions for cities to thrive and begin moving toward more sustainable models. "Learning" here means the pursuit of ideas, mastery of knowledge, creating, engaging, inspiring one another. Here are the possible actions which could support this, in relation to planning and managing better cities:

1. Start with understanding needs and an end game - A key to improving engagement is to gain agreement on a common vision and the contribution of several organizations and citizens to building a plan that will solve key challenges and evaluate results. As an example, the Canadian Smart Cities Challenge by Infrastructure Canada asked communities to think about a problem they wanted to solve using data and connected technologies. The process forced a community consultation that was non-traditional in its outlook to choose a theme, then several community stakeholders to come together to work out how they would solve this challenge. Some had grand ideas, such as eliminating poverty within their city, proving that a city's future will be about engaging all stakeholders into solving problems. These will be broader than the conventional road repair and garbage removal.
2. Engage more local stakeholders in the process of planning. While this may look like something that cities normally do, the reality is that there is not always a deep connection between governing bodies and its stakeholders. The election process and its resulting governing body are not enough in an increasingly complex world to devise policies and actions that will move the yardstick for cities. This includes local stakeholders - governments, non-profits, non-governmental organizations, private sector, citizens with various perspectives as well as externals to think creatively about the city of the future.
3. Make an informed assessment of the changes occurring in the environment of the city to proactively change/adapt their environment. There are always locals 'in-the-know' and those that have unconventional ways to solve challenges. Some cities organize 'unconferences' where the topics are decided at the conference and allowed to stray to generate innovation. Sometimes we need to invite experts to give us a sneak preview of probable disruption. Only once we are armed with an understanding of risks and opportunities can we begin to make some informed choices.
4. Revisit resource allocations to incentivize new directions, find options for pooling resources. Encourage local organizations to view the City as a system rather than an aggregation of independent silos. Make bold decisions on where to invest for longer term visions.
5. Plan to use technology and economic development strategies for sustainable development and outcomes - smart tools and a digital economy provide several opportunities to improve systems, to identify which ones need to be implemented right away, which ones need more consultation to avoid negative outcomes, which strategies might create new sustainable opportunities? How do we build a brand?
6. Develop cities with people in mind - We have been designing cities under engineering and aesthetic principles. We need to shift toward more human-centered approaches. Places where people can connect with one another; where children can play; where access to goods and services is walkable or reachable using public transportation; where people can choose to work from home; where we have the right support systems but also the information that we need to make decisions for ourselves and to contribute to the development of our community.

These are broad headings. We need to make these challenges more concrete and meaningful, adapting them for each jurisdiction.