Cambie Report

Ken Sim maybe told people Sean Orr is a drug dealer based on a dodgy photo but he's really sorry. Candidates are announcing their intention to run for election. Some housing is going ahead, some isn't and Vancouver impedes on Maritime Law. Links Matthew on Global BC Today Vancouver councillor calls his opponents drug users and dealers in social media video | CBC News Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim says comments about councillor Sean Orr came from an unverified photo - BC | Globalnews.ca COPE Councillor Considering Next Steps After Mayor’s False Drug Accusations | The Tyee Vancouver Coun. Sean Orr sues Mayor Ken Sim for defamation | CBC News Sean Orr is Suing Ken Sim – Help Fund the Fight 2026 Candidates for Nomination - OneCity Vancouver Vancouver Green Candidates Andy Lin alleges Green disqualification Candidates & Caucus - Vancouver Liberals Vote Vancouver candidates Post by @anjaliappadurai.bsky.social Burnaby's ruling party announces council candidates for October election - Freshet News Annis reveals 4 Surrey First candidates for councillor, for 2026 election Surrey First council candidate withdraws UPDATE: Doug McCallum doesn’t want a SkyTrain station named after him | Surrey Now-Leader Our Team - Imagine Surrey Register of Elector Organizations Muhammad Ahmad for Mayor (@muhammadformayor) • Instagram photos and videos Vancouver council says proposal for 924 rental homes too dense, lacks amenities City enters deal with B.C. to close 3 Vancouver SROs in entertainment district City Council approves first Vancouver Official Development Plan Vancouver city staff recommend dropping Mayor Ken Sim's bitcoin motion | CBC News Vancouver airport parkade might never be finished, construction halted 6 years ago - BC | Globalnews.ca Vancouver to remove lifeguards from some beaches for 2026 season Opposition mounts to hydrotherapy barge plan for public dock at Vancouver Maritime Museum Finnish company proposes 250-room floating hotel on Vancouver waterfront Oakridge Park - Wikipedia Oakridge—The Postwar History of a Densifying Neighbourhood | MONTECRISTO

William Azaroff wins the OneCity mayoral nomination and his first act is a “progressive primary” ultimatum to COPE and the Greens. The Liberals pick up another candidate and nominations for council seats are underway. Lucy Maloney wants councillors to attend in person, the Olympic Village school is further delayed, Langara Gardens is going ahead, and so is a city-owned development on the Main Street McDonalds. The City's Auditor General has two damning reports. Links Pete Fry announces candidacy for mayor William Azaroff chosen as OneCity Vancouver's mayoral candidate | CBC News William Azaroff Progressive Primary - OneCity COPE responds The Greens respond Vancouver Liberals add park board commissioner Brennan Bastyovanszky to team Run with Vote Vancouver Team For A Livable Vancouver To Run Candidates For Mayor, Council, School And Park Board In This Fall’s Election Mayor Ken Sim Announces Re-Election Bid, Vows to Keep Fighting for Vancouver Former MLA launches Imagine Surrey mayoral run and city councillor slate | Urbanized Former MLA Mike Starchuk enters 2026 mayoral race in Surrey | Vancouver Sun Imagine Surrey Vancouver councillor wants to ‘eliminate double standards’ on remote work at city hall Residents, parents address city hall over proposed Olympic Village school Langara Gardens: 2,600 new homes approved by Vancouver City Council for Cambie Corridor site Approved Science World rental towers could raise $700 million for City of Vancouver | Urbanized Vancouver's auditor general criticizes city over lack of paper trail for lost developer amenities | CBC News Vancouver missed out on millions as land deals were struck without proper strategy: report Park Board seeking new permanent attraction for Stanley Park Train site | Urbanized Vancouver council approves increase of slots from 600 to 900 at downtown casino Coquitlam Mountie fired over vulgar messages in group chats - CTV News Richard Marpole - Wikipedia This Week in History: 1920 The CPR's Richard Marpole dies | Vancouver Sun Bill Miner - Wikipedia

We're back and this time intend to stay back as this election is shaping up to be chaotic with Ken Sim seeking re-election, Pete Fry launching a bid for mayor and the Vancouver Liberals getting their first caucus members in 90 years. Sim is praising his zero percent property tax increase budget but city employees are not happy. Council can agree on one thing: Headlights are too damn bright. Housing looks shaky but we are building on industrial land. And the dump will continue to take your trash.LinksRanking how much Vancouver councillors have distanced themselves from Mayor Ken SimKen Sim 'pivots' from park board and bitcoin, pushes safety and affordability in re-election bid | CBC NewsCould Pete Fry soon announce a mayoral run?Green Party of Vancouver endorses Pete Fry for Mayor or Council in 2026 Municipal ElectionEx-ABC Vancouver politician joins new civic party to seek re-electionSchool Board chair to run for Vancouver City Council in civic election | UrbanizedNew civic Liberals party propose amalgamating University Endowment Lands with City of VancouverVancouver City Council approves 2026 Budget with 0% property tax increase'Deceitful and unfair': Vancouver municipal workers' union files complaint alleging bad-faith negotiationVancouver council votes down living wage motion three years after scrapping policyVancouver city council calls on feds to address headlight brightness | CBC NewsVancouver mayoral candidate pitches $200-million traffic signal coordination plan | UrbanizedB.C. home prices at risk of 27% jump by 2032 due to delayed construction | UrbanizedVancouver city council approves massive 2-tower VGH expansionGoing against advice of city staff, Vancouver council approves residential tower on industrial landCity eyes federal and provincial loans to demolish downtown Vancouver viaducts | UrbanizedVancouver Landfill to stay open until 2050 under new regional agreement VancouverattaEverett Crowley Park - WikipediaVancouver’s Forgotten Monuments TikTok video

OneCity Vancouver is in the midst of their mayoral nomination contest, so we spoke to the two candidates: William Azaroff and Amanda Burrows about why they want to lead the city.Learn more:William AzaroffAmanda Burrows

Just one year to go until voters across Metro Vancouver go to the polls to elect their next mayors and city councils. New Westminster Mayor Patrick Johnstone joins Ian to preview the races to watch across the region, and whether Vancouver is facing a referendum or not.Life After Cars event on Nov 8Vancouver residents will have say on park board’s futureMayor Ken Sim provides updated statement on Park Board referendum legislationVancouver mayor cites 'Indigenous title issue' in fight to abolish park board

Did you miss us? We're back to talk UBCM, the preponderance of parties that will participate in next year's election, the war of the Langleys and the wizard in the park.LinksUBCM convention shows drift from 'compassion fatigue' to concern over crime and disorder | CBC NewsCodes of conduct and transit: UBCM convention sees municipal priorities pitted against provincial power | CBC NewsVancouver city councillor kicked out of ruling party announces mayoral bid | CBC NewsVancouver mayor's former chief of staff starts new political partyVancouver LiberalsB.C. Conservatives launch new municipal party before 2025 elections | Vancouver SunFormer federal Conservative minister to steer B.C. municipal party - Castanet.netRegister of Elector OrganizationsFormer Vancouver mayor launching court challenge of B.C.'s 'at-large' electoral systemFormer Vancouver mayor to challenge B.C.'s voting system in court | CBC NewsFix City HallWar of the Langleys: governance tensions between township and city mayors spills into the open | CBC NewsLangley township mayor sues political rivals over social media accusations | CBC NewsThis B.C. mayor promised to use $55M in real estate for charity. Now he’s ignored an order to open the booksRichmond, B.C., Mayor Malcolm Brodie won't seek re-election after 25 years in the role | CBC NewsTerrace-born Donny van Dyk is Vancouver's new city managerUp to 24 months of full pay for Paul Mochrie, Vancouver's departed city manager: DocumentsVancouver mayor and ABC councillors broke code of conduct, city integrity commissioner rules | CBC NewsIntegrity Commissioner Report COVIC-010: Complaint against Mayor Sim and Councillors Sarah Kirby-Yung, Lisa Dominato, Lenny ZhConcerns over secret meetings ‘politicized,’ Vancouver mayor saysProposal to suspend work of Vancouver's integrity commissioner quietly fizzles out | CBC NewsThird-party report recommends more independence for Vancouver's integrity commissioner | CBC NewsRelease of City of Vancouver Code of Conduct By-law No. 12886 Review and RecommendationsB.C. says it will strengthen oversight of municipal governments | Vancouver SunVancouver park board commissioner under fire for repeated absences: ‘Do you really want this job?’Why Vancouver's decision to host a Harry Potter attraction quickly became controversial | CBC NewsBright Nights leaves Vancouver for Surrey, as Stanley Park train remains sidelinedVancouveratta: The X-Files, Vancouver, and a Legendary Backlash | MONTECRISTO

What's in: Finance reports and new parties.What's out: Speeding, garburators, disabled housing, Pride, Stanley Park Train and the Mayor's GymLinksByelection finance reportsAdministrative Monetary Penalties Posted Online | Elections BCVancouver has a new civic party — the Vancouver LiberalsVancouver Liberals30 km/h speed limits coming to local streets in VancouverGarburators will officially be banned in Vancouver for a pricey reasonMetro loses legal bid in feud over millions of documents in North Shore poo plant trialHousing for residents with disabilities put on hold due to lack of parkingVancouver Pride in peril? Parade will proceed despite losing nearly half its sponsorsStanley Park Train will be off the rails for 2025 | CBC NewsKen Sim's gym closesVancouveratta - Vancouver’s fractured left cracks again

An emergency motion for a Lapu Lapu Day tragedy memorial event surprises even Filipino BC. The Kitsilano Coalition is happy to see the city concede on the planned supportive housing project. The Vancouver Renters' Office also isn't coming back anytime soon. Metro Vancouver and the Langleys debate governance and policing. But with luck, we'll see a new worker-owned co-op news outlet in the Tri-Cities, Burnaby, and New West00:55 Strange Developments: Lapu Lapu Day Tragedy Memorial06:35 Kitsilano Coalition's Victory Against Supportive Housing09:20 Vancouver Park Board Controversy12:44 Vancouver Renter's Office Debate15:47 Ken Sim's Defamation Lawsuit17:24 Granville Street Entertainment District Plan27:43 Langley Policing Dispute32:09 Worker-Owned Co-op News Outlet34:42 Vancouveratta - Invasive Wall LizardsLinksCommunity Update l Tuesday, June 3 — Filipino BCB.C. Filipino community group upset with Vancouver city council's sudden Lapu Lapu Day memorial event decisionHave the Doors Closed on New BC Supportive Housing? | The TyeeDissolution of Vancouver Park Board on pause: CityMotion to bring back Vancouver renter office defeated in tie vote – CTVNewsVancouver Mayor Ken Sim launches defamation lawsuit against former chief of staff and local businessmanCar-free revival plan for Granville strip approved by Vancouver City Council | UrbanizedPhoto ready: City votes to install giant $1M Vancouver sign along waterfront | CBC NewsMetro Vancouver has 41 directors. After a governance review, will that change? | CBC NewsUnder fire for wasteful spending, Metro Vancouver touts award for ‘excellence in financial reporting’Former Premier Mike Harcourt calls for big changes at Metro VancouverPolicing ‘divorce’ going ahead between City and Township of Langley - BC | Globalnews.caSave Our Local NewsAxed local reporters aim to launch first worker-owned co-op news outlet in Western Canada, covering Tri-Cities, Burnaby, New WestminsterVancouverattaThe wall lizard invasion of Vancouver Island - Macleans.caBC Bob | Oopsies 🦎 | Instagram

We mourn with everyone who lost friends and loved ones at the recent Lapu Lapu tragedy. In the coming months, we'll be sure to follow the ongoing political fallout of the failures that led to this event. In the meantime, support the Kapwa Strong fundraiser.Looking back at the byelection, it should probably have been quite clear what was going to happen but few (besides Peter Meiszner) would have predicted Vancouver's elections to be run so poorly. Plus we have a trove of fundraising data from the 2024 annual reports and the VPD are in the news for all the wrong reasons.Plus we remember the McBarge.LinksFilipino BC - Kapwa Strong fundraiser‘Hard to accept’ festival attack suspect was under mental health care: Vancouver mayor - CTV NewsCity of Vancouver's Lapu Lapu festival planning called into question compared to other eventsHigh interest and 62% cut in staffing lead to major lines in Vancouver byelection | CBC NewsChief Election Officer declares candidates elected | City of VancouverBy-election resultsAnonymous ballot marking — City of Vancouver Open Data PortalVancouver mayor to reflect on resident satisfaction following party's byelection defeats | CBC NewsVancouver's byelection a story of big lines, big passion, and ABC coping with a big loss | CBC News'We got our butts handed to us:' ABC Vancouver pledges to learn from byelection defeat - Dan FumanoWhat can we learn from the 2024 annual reports - Cambie ReportVPD whistleblower alleges ‘Task Force Barrage’ arrest quotas - BC | Globalnews.caUnredacted email from alleged anonymous VPD officerVancouver Police Department to be over budget by millions: reportFormer Vancouver Police Board member questions budget approval process for $5M crackdown on DTES crime – CTVNewsVancouveratta - McBargeIconic Expo 86 'McBarge' capsizes in Fraser River | CBC NewsJustin McElroy 🇨🇦: "i had to say goodbye with one drawing and one song" — BlueskyAbandoned BC Ferry on fire in Mission

"I'm sorry" - Ken Sim about five times in the last month.Also featuring Annette Reilly of the Vancouver Green's statement.LinksVancouver byelection: Seven candidates from five parties make their pitchVancouver sees 2,876 ballots cast on first day of advance voting for byelectionByelection candidates question ABC Vancouver’s debate absence'Oops': Vancouver mayor apologizes for series of recent slip-upsVancouver municipal council by-election candidate forced to apologize for e-mail outreach to police officersA Police Union Leader’s Controversial Run for Vancouver Council | The TyeeAudio leaked of Vancouver byelection candidate discussing running mate - BC | Globalnews.caKen Sim Bitcoin video (Bitcoin)ABC Vancouver's 'repudiation of the rule of law' shows gap in B.C.'s municipal oversight, Ombudsperson saysVancouver Mayor Ken Sim gets booed at Juno Awards | NewsCandidates for Vancouver Municipal Party Say They Attended Multiple Events with Conspiratorial Far-Right Groups By AccidentPolicies/platformsABC VancouverCOPEVancouver GreensOneCityTEAMVancouverattaBure once helped pull off the ultimate Vancouver Canucks April Fools' prank | Sports

We turned the mics over to the candidates for the Vancouver byelection so you can hear directly from them.Featuring Lucy Malone (OneCity), Colleen Hardwick (TEAM), Sean Orr (COPE), Jaime Stein (ABC) and Theodore Abbott (TEAM). Unfortunately, we didn't receive clips from Ralph Kaisers (ABC) or Annette Reilly (Greens) by our deadline.

With 38 days until the Vancouver by-elections, we delve into the DUI allegations against Mayor Ken Sim, which were reportedly dismissed by police investigations. We discuss Task Force Barrage, a new initiative targeting organized crime and public safety. As well: Rebecca Bligh and is out of ABC, Adam Palmer is out of the VPD - the latter by choice. ABC announces its byelection candidates. And, Surrey withdraws from the Metro Vancouver Regional Growth Strategy, community newspapers close and our Vancouveratta.LinksVancouver Mayor Ken Sim, police, cleared of ‘baseless’ DUI allegation - BC | Globalnews.caOPCC says allegations against Vancouver mayor 'baseless' but won't publish reportVancouver mayor, police to roll out plan to tackle crime, public safety concernsAfter four decades of policing in Vancouver, Chief Adam Palmer retiresABC Vancouver Introduces By-Election CandidatesVDLC Endorses Vancouver City Council Byelection CandidatesVancouver Coun. Rebecca Bligh kicked out of ABC caucus | CBC NewsLeaked document shows new plan by Vancouver city council to alter the Downtown Eastside - The Globe and MailVancouver council gets update on efforts to ‘uplift’ Downtown Eastside - BC | Globalnews.caABC Vancouver park board politicians violated policy on open meetings, watchdog findsIntegrity Commissioner Report PBIC-003: Complaint against Vancouver Park Board Commissioners Bastyovanszky, Christensen, Haer, HCity of Surrey to withdraw from Metro Vancouver's Regional Growth StrategyTax dollars subsidized IKEA, The Brick electric vehicles, Metro Vancouver board hears - BC | Globalnews.caBurnaby Now, New Westminster Record, Tri-City News to closeVancouveratta: The Vancouver Daily World - Wikipedia

Byelection candidates, supportive housing pause, Metro Van boycott and the Delta Police spark an international incident.LinksOneCity candidate - Lucy Maloney: OneCity Vancouver By-election CandidateCOPE - COPE Nominates Local Housing Activist and Writer Sean Orr as By-Election Candidate — COPE VancouverGreens - Annette Reilly - Green Party of Vancouver beats Pamela Dudas - Green Party of VancouverTEAM - Colleen Hardwick and Theodore AbbottVancouver mayor rejects new supportive housing projects, promises ‘crackdown’ on gangs – CTVNewsTwo ABC Vancouver councillors question Ken Sim’s plan to ‘freeze’ new supportive housingB.C. housing minister says Vancouver's plan for Downtown Eastside could increase crime | CBC NewsDowntown Eastside at 'tipping point' as London Drugs considers leaving Woodward's buildingVancouver mayor to boycott Metro Vancouver meetings over ‘broken’ governance - BC | Globalnews.caB.C. fires Victoria School Board over ban on police in schools | CBC NewsEnd to public access at some Vancouver school fields has neighbourhood group frustrated | CBC NewsThis is the proposed car-free transformation of the Granville Entertainment DistrictSummer boozing allowed at 7 Vancouver beaches on ‘permanent basis’ – CTVNewsShelter is Survival - BC Civil Liberties AssociationKelowna blows past provincial housing target30 metre-long B.C. fence along stretch of U.S. border sparks international investigation | CBC NewsBorder fence erected along stretch of Canada-U.S. border now taken down - BC | Globalnews.ca. Revelstoke city council votes to rescind 1985 policy forbidding nuclear weapons - Salmon Arm News - Castanet.netHere's why Vancouver has 'nuclear weapons free zone' signs'It's not a fight we've won': Vancouver's iconic nuclear war activists renew calls for peace | CBC News

Two byelections at the same time folks. With Vancouver's longest-serving councillor, Adriane Carr, stepping down and Christine Boyle's election to the BC Legislature, Vancouver needs two new councillors. We look at the race and everything else that's happened recently.LinksVancouver Coun. Adriane Carr resigns, setting up 2-seat byelection | CBC NewsVancouver council confirms details of 2-seat byelection on April 5 | CBC NewsTeam promises 2 candidatesHardwick confirms her interestVote Socialist takes a passBut Sean Orr seeks COPE nominationBob Kronbauer: The NPA is gone and nobody gives a crapVANCOUVER POLITICAL PARTIES UNITED IN DEMANDING ELECTIONS BC DISCIPLINE FOR KEN SIM PARTY’S CAMPAIGN FINANCE IRREGULARITIESOpposition parties demand Elections BC complete investigation before Vancouver by-electionYou may have to pay to spray as Vancouver considering water metering for all homes, buildingsVancouver city council votes to look into residential water metering - BC | Globalnews.caVancouver property tax to increase by 3.9% in 2025Vancouver City Council approves 2025 operating and capital budget with 3.9% property tax increaseNo, Vancouver is not that unsafe, actually - Ian's article on crimeBurnaby unveils 'housing library' for pre-reviewed multiplex home designsStandardized designs arrive to help build more homes fasterBC Court of Appeal social housing judgementEby says there ‘will be affordable social housing’ in Kits neighbourhood, despite pushback - BC | Globalnews.caKingsgate Mall: Developer wins multi-million-dollar rent battle with Vancouver School Board - BC | Globalnews.caBC Supreme Court Beedie vs VSB judgementPalestinian Symbols Banned at Vancouver Public LibraryVancouver Public Library staff banned from wearing watermelon pins to show support for PalestineVancouver mayor defends bitcoin motion, says it's better than gold | CBC NewsNew West to become first B.C. city restricting the delivery of graphic abortion images'There is nothing historic about Peachland,' argues councillor in debate over welcome signsHidekazu Tojo - WikipediaCalifornia roll - Wikipedia

Two-years of Ken Sim, Crab Park residents evicted, some upcoming byelections, Burnaby affordable housing requirements axed, New West mayor chastised and Surrey gets its first weed store.LinksQ&A: Ken Sim reflects on two-year anniversary as Vancouver mayorChip Wilson DayVancouver's CRAB Park residents left with few options as eviction looms | CBC News13 local politicians were elected to the B.C. Legislature. Not all are giving up their municipal roles | CBC NewsChristine Boyle announces resignation from Vancouver city councilBurnaby eliminates affordable rental requirement in low-income neighbourhoodNew West mayor's all-expenses paid trip to Dubai breached ethics rules: CommissionerGreen light: Surrey council approves 12 new pot stores across the cityMetro Vancouver approves 25.3% increase to regional tax bill in 2025Metro Vancouver sells land set aside for Bowen Island CampgroundParadox Hotel Vancouver - Wikipedia

Sarah Kirby-Yung is mad at Rebecca Bligh. Pete Fry is mad at Ken Sim. Everyone is acting like children. It's the council we know and love. But at least with a majority, they passed most everything they wanted (for better or worse). And at least Vancouver's mayor hasn't been deemed likely to leak confidential documents via Staples print centres again.LinksF-bomb dropped in heated Vancouver city council exchangeThe video (shoutout Spencer Powell)Pete Fry told to "live with it"On procedureJust a very busy meetingGastown pedestrian pilot staff reportVancouver's non-ABC councillors set to be stripped of extra roles and payVancouver passes motion granting police traffic camera accessAmendment to subject camera plan to charter review passes with ABC splitVancouver councillors call for lobbyist registry at city hallMOTION - Establishing a Community Policing Centre in Gastown and Area to Enhance Safety and SecuritySim amends his own motionMOTION - Protecting and Enhancing Greenspace for the East End, Chinatown, Hogan’s Alley and Strathcona - Standing Committee onABC Vancouver's promise to hire 100 mental health nurses sits at 35No rezoning: Vancouver could expedite new social, supportive housing | UrbanizedVancouver city council allows developer to delay major Oakridge projectContentious natural gas decision could test unity of Vancouver's ABC majorityQuestions raised about role of Vancouver mayor's adviser in controversial natural gas voteAfter B.C. election, what happens next as Christine Boyle vacates her Vancouver council seat?Park Board to raise revenue for upgrades by charging extra fees for Vancouver events and attractionsBurnaby thwarts provincial transit-oriented housing laws — againMayor Hamer-Jackson leaked documents in April; investigation ruled it unlawful | iNFOnews | Thompson-Okanagan's News SourceVancou'd have been: Spanish Banks and Point Grey were nearly turned into a gigantic industrial portHow a proposed airport at Spanish Banks almost changed Vancouver forever | Globalnews.caThe Grand Campus Washout - UBC Centennial

ABC backtracks on the city's integrity commissioner, while ending City Hall lighting for (foreign) national holidays. Burnaby signs a gag order with TransMountain. Police in the region are over budget and saying some wildly bigoted things. A quirky by-election in Harrison Hot Springs. The Park Board's existential plea, legal battles over tree removal in Stanley Park, and the return of the ghost train serve as the lighter notes.Timestamps and Links01:20 Integrity Commissioner Controversy'Pause the pause': ABC Vancouver reversing course on integrity commissioner freeze04:46 City Hall Lighting Policy ChangesVancouver council limits groups from lighting up city hall, Burrard Bridge09:39 Public Opinion on Mayor and CouncilMajority of Vancouverites feel Mayor and city council are out of touch: CityNews poll 12:22 VPD Budget Overrun and RCMP AccountabilityVancouver Police department overspending by millions: report'Atrocious' comments by RCMP officers alleged in internal probe | CBC News17:07 Victoria Citizens Assembly on AmalgamationVictoria-Saanich amalgamation report begins after years of delay 20:29 Burnaby's Gag Order with Trans MountainBurnaby barred from ‘negative public communications’ about Trans Mountain under $20M deal - BC | Globalnews.ca22:57 Vancouver Park Board's Fight for ExistenceVancouver Park Board votes to remain an elected body26:01 Stanley Park Tree Removal Lawsuit and SCC Rejects Vancouver's SRO Vacancy Control AppealB.C. court rejects attempt to stop tree removal in Stanley Park | CBC NewsSupreme Court of Canada - SCC Case Information - Summary - 41198B.C. law change will let City of Vancouver enact SRO vacancy control | CBC News30:47 Harrison Hot Springs By-ElectionHarrison Hot Springs elects new mayor, councillor in byelection | CBC News33:25 Stanley Park Ghost Train ReturnsStanley Park Ghost Train to ride again in October34:48 Vancouveratta: BC's First General Election1871 BC Election MapElectoral History of B.C. | Elections BC

Pete Fry foils Ken Sim's effort to put the Integrity Commissioner's office into a medically-induced coma. The Park Board releases a legal opinion suggesting a mid-term abolition may be unconstitutional. Surrey wants a Charter. A North Van chemical company runs an astroturf campaign. The People's Park defeats the fire station. And lots of housing - and little parking - coming to Vancouver's east end.LinksVancouver council defers vote on integrity commissioner's review | CBC News Vancouver Park Board seeks legal advice over dissolution motion | CBC NewsPRIVILEGED LEGAL OPINION - Memo to B. Bastyovanszky 4 Sept 2024.pdfSurrey, B.C., council votes unanimously to request city charter | CBC NewsMayor Brenda Locke calls for more control, exemptions with proposed Surrey CharterCampaign against B.C. chlorine plant was secretly funded by rival | CBC NewsVancouver pauses plan to build temporary fire hall on Strathcona green spaceEast Village: Over 900 rental homes and social housing units in towers up to 39 storeys to transform East Hastings Street in Vancouver's Downtown EastsideThis Week in History, 1935: A "religious cult" run by "a charlatan" bamboozles a wealthy housewife | Vancouver Sun

Council controversies: Brian Montague's integrity commissioner review, Vancouver's rollback on climate action policies, and the city's purchase of an almost completed market rental building. Delayed suicide prevention barriers on Granville Bridge, TransLink's funding crisis, and the debate over Vancouver's view cones. Cities try to meet the deadline to pass multiplex bylaws, except West Vancouver. City council and the park board battle over bike lanes in the West End. And we dig into a heavily redacted FOI on when Ken Sim decided to move to abolish the Park Board.Links01:57 Integrity Commissioner Review05:05 Climate Action Report and Natural Gas Debate09:47 Granville Bridge Suicide Barriers Delayed (see also re debris)Vancouver to get new dedicated bus lanes on these key routes13:43 TransLink Funding Crisis and Potential Cuts21:08 View Cones Debate26:43 City Purchases Market Rental Building30:36 Ken Sim's Quick Fix for Kits Pool33:37 Bike Lane Battle: Park Board vs. Council36:06 FOI Requests and Park Board AbolishmentFOI fight43:01 Provincial Housing Compliance and West Vancouver's Defiance45:55 Surrey's Push for a City Charter48:33 NIMBYs Oppose New Fire Station50:56 Vancouver's New Sign and Historical Homages53:45 Farewell to AM 730 Traffic RadioOutro audio credit: TikTok @unCOUVER

Ken Sim expropriated a City Hall boardroom for a personal gym because that's what winners do. Meanwhile, the cops are using their extra budget to tackle the chaos that is people watching the sunset from the beach. Mandatory upzoning is progressing, with some notable squeaky wheels that are playing chicken with the province. And a new audit is being launched into the ill-fated North Shore Waste Water Plant.LinksPete Fry’s tweet of the gymVancouver Mayor Ken Sim explains why he turned a boardroom into a gymVancouver Mayor Ken Sim defends converting city hall room into a gymHere's how many times Vancouver's mayor has been absent from a vote at council$80K staff position added to Vancouver mayor's office | CBC NewsCarol Reardon tweet on Sim mathBlair’s tweet of cops clearing the beachVancouver police English Bay beach sweep prompts questionsMayor Ken Sim out as Vancouver Police Board chair | CBC NewsSurrey policing transition saga over, mayor accepts judicial reviewMore than 4,000 homes built for people, thousands more on the way through housing targetsVancouver to allow more density at all SkyTrain stations beyond legislation | UrbanizedVancouver council votes to densify upscale Shaughnessy neighbourhoodVancouver scraps minimum parking requirements citywide - BC | Globalnews.caCities ask for more time to comply with B.C.'s zoning laws | CBC NewsB.C. rejects Burnaby petition for exemption to new transit-oriented development rulesBurnaby defies new BC housing transit-oriented area lawsBylaws passed: Port Moody, Coquitlam (for TOAs only), Richmond, Surrey, Delta, ChilliwackPublic toilet plan doesn't pass the sniff test for some New West residentsTransLink announces $90M cost-cutting plan to address funding gap | CBC NewsCity reverses plan to spend $6M for expanded Burnaby elementary school gymMetro announces independent review of ballooning North Vancouver sewage plant cost - North Shore NewsVancouverattaThe Vancouver Stock Exchange: A Legacy of Fraud and Money Laundering Part IThe Vancouver Stock Exchange: A Legacy of Fraud and Money Laundering Part II

At some point Brenda Locke should get tired of losing, but today is not that day. It does inspire us to think of Surrey as a grand collective delusion that we're all experiencing. Importantly though, voting isn't speech and the constitution still doesn't recognize municipalities.In Vancouver, Council wants to keep property taxes low, there are squabbles at the Park Board but maybe we can sell off naming rights to our parks to solve our budget woes (spoiler: we can't). Ken Sim will continue to operate on vibes, however. Throughout that, Vancouver is behind on its housing targets but it has plenty of company from municipalities still grumbling about the province forcing them to upzone all residential zones.George Harvie is still in hot water over travel expenditures, Port Moody mulled a lobbyist registry, Langley City is banning daycares and Coquitlam nearly banned joy.And you should all go save the WISE Hall.LinksSurrey loses court bid to keep RCMP As Brenda Locke's policing losses mount, mandate argument weakens - CBCBC Supreme Court rulingMax tax increase agreedIntegrity Commissioner RulingVancouver plans to give corporate names to city and park board assets'Decline in completions': Vancouver misses housing targets ordered by B.C.Oof, A Deep Dive - The BindSim's got the feels'Not my job to crunch numbers,' Vancouver mayor says as expert questions FIFA's economic benefitVancouver votes to move ahead with pod hotel pilot projectCities ask for more time to comply with B.C.'s zoning lawsTwo Metro Vancouver mayors watching how densification impacts property values, taxesProvincial Legislation Compels Coquitlam to Pivot on Priorities and Restructure Funding SystemsWest Van council rejects provincial housing rules - North Shore NewsDelta mayor under fire over planned trip, travel expenses - BC | Globalnews.caFallout continues, following Delta council uprising against mayorNo time for lobbyist registry, Port Moody council decidesLangley City council votes to restrict new daycares downtownCoquitlam gets more bounce to the ounce; developer gets verbally trounced – Tri-Cities DispatchAt risk of closing, East Vancouver's Wise Hall seeks public supportWISE Hall • Vancouver Heritage FoundationWise Hall

No fun city? Unless you want to gamble. Surrey policing drama. Mayors behaving badly.LinksJohn Coupar runs for BC ConservativesVancouver mayor cautious about organizing Canucks watch parties | CBC NewsVancouver mulls viewing area for ’amazing’ Canucks’ fans | The ProvinceRoxy Fever…the Podcast! (@roxyfever) / XInvestigations Initiated into Potential Contraventions of the Local Elections Campaign Financing ActVancouver council considers 'modifying' moratorium on gambling expansionDate set for Surrey Police Service to take over from RCMP: FarnworthBombshell hidden provincial report confirms SPS costs to skyrocket by $750M | City of SurreySurrey Police Deloitte reportSurrey mayor’s ‘withdrawal of service’ complaint about SPS officers called ‘hurtful’B.C. judge refuses to seal documents alleging RCMP bullying against Surrey policeUPDATE: RCMP union says its officers can't work under Surrey Police without federal law changesDelta council votes to remove Mayor Harvie as Metro chairJas Johal on George HarvieThread on Kamloops mayorKamloops council reverses mayor's suspension of CAO | CBC NewsKamloops mayor says sex photo incident on 'list' of reasons he suspended top city officialB.C. mayor stripped of budget, barred from committees over Indigenous residential schools bookThe First International Store - Starbucks Canada

Christine Boyle defeats Andrea Reimer in the battle of Little Mountain, meaning we're likely headed to a council byelection later this year. Last year's annual report fundraising gives us some insight into how well each party might do. Surrey meanwhile, doesn't want money. Vancouver will be saying goodbye to public hearings. An overdose prevention site draws controversy, as do new rules around sheltering in parks. The City hopes to go to the Supreme Court of Canada. The Olympic Village school is finally coming. And Vision Zero wants you to take a brick to cross the street.LinksVancouver Coun. Christine Boyle secures B.C. NDP nomination | CBC NewsAndrea Reimer's thread on her lossABC raises most while OneCity has largest supporter base – Cambie ReportLocal party fundraising beyond Vancouver in 2023Minister’s statement on Surrey policing transition | BC Gov NewsSurrey police chief sees path now to completing transition | Vancouver SunProposed changes to Vancouver Charter will help build more homes fasterHealth authority secures 'discreet' location for Vancouver overdose prevention siteVancouver mayor disappointed by new location for overdose prevention siteVancouver Park Board tightens rules on homeless encampments - BC | Globalnews.caVancouver SRO vacancy control to be heard in Supreme CourtNew school coming to Olympic Village | BC Gov NewsGranville Island crosswalk users urged to pick up a brick | CBC NewsAbout Granville Island - Granville Island - Vancouver, BCGranville Island - Wikipedia

The municipal becomes the provincial as two friends-of-the-pod compete in the race to replace an outgoing MLA. Mike Klassen asks the city for money for a Junos trip, Ken Sim asks a park board commissioner for forgiveness and the MST Nations are going to ask the province for everything. We also get into BIA expansion controversies, calls to make the red Vancouver sign permanent, and the history of neon signs in Vancouver.B.C. NDP nomination battle brewing between former and current Vancouver city councillorsVancouver councillor withdraws application for city cash to cover Junos trip with mayorIntegrity investigation finds Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim discriminated against Park Board commissionerVancouver Host First Nations support Park Board dissolutionLetter from MST nations Dan Fumano: Vancouver park board abolition not coming before B.C. election, Premier Eby saysCommunity associations ask B.C. not to eliminate Park BoardDan Fumano: Psychedelics are illegal — and Vancouver police say criminal charges could be comingRichmond, B.C., council approves drug consumption site motion | CBC NewsRichmond won't seek approval for drug consumption site: mayor | CBC NewsA supervised consumption site for Richmond, B.C., was ditched. Why are critics still so furious?24-07 BCPS announces appointment of Special Prosecutor GordonWest Vancouver mayor Mark Sager suspended from practicing law for two years after admitting misconduct - North Shore News3 code of conduct complaints filed against Port Moody councillor during first year in officeMount Pleasant BIA expands despite objectionsB.C. municipality to debate whether it should continue to exist | CBC NewsCity Council to consider installing a permanent "VANCOUVER" sign | UrbanizedNeon Vancouver Ugly Vancouver — MOVNeon in the City — MOV | Museum of VancouverThis Week in History, 1927: Neon signs light up Vancouver

Park board abolition, budget task force and naming rights, car-free gastown and more.LinksMuni Ministry - Park Board MMA-2023-33456.pdfVancouver Mayor - Park Board 2023-763 - res.pdf“the province is not going to be surprised”Sim says Vancouver Park Board 'not fixable'Park commissioners unlock $20K to fight Vancouver mayor's move to abolish boardVancouver-area Indigenous groups refuse to endorse mayor’s plan to dismantle park board - The Globe and Mail2 local First Nations support Vancouver Park Board plan Mayor's Budget Taskforce ReportVancouver mayor says city could generate $100M via naming rights of buildings, parksCommissioner says no conflict in Rolling Stones' promo at Vancouver city hallDan Fumano: ABC Vancouver returns $116000 in prohibited donations from 2022 electionHigh-profile member of Vancouver Police Board resigns - BC | Globalnews.caVancouver Police Board member resigns, cites conflicts of interest, political interference | CBC NewsMetro Vancouver bus strike averted as 2 sides accept mediator’s recommendations | Globalnews.caVancouver's Gastown will go car-free this summerNorth Vancouver District approves controversial supportive housingWhy I quit my job (video) | Patreon Bob Kronbauer

Denis Agar, founder of Movement, a transit advocacy nonprofit organization, discusses the challenges and solutions for improving transit in Metro Vancouver. We cover the issues with the 49 bus route, the need for bus lanes and other transit improvements, the importance of community engagement, the funding challenges faced by TransLink, the potential of real estate development as a funding source, and the strategies for addressing different levels of government. The conversation discusses the challenges and funding contingencies in implementing transit plans, particularly in the context of the bus rapid transit (BRT) 10-year plan. It highlights the need for increased funding for bus service and the importance of public involvement in transit advocacy.LinksTransitMovement.caOur repeat Vancouveratta on the 49 plaques

Ken Sim proposes abolishing the Park Board, shocking half of the ABC Park Board caucus who are now in open revolt. Can the right decisions be made for the pettiest of reasons? Ken Sim also saw the City Hall walls and wanted them painted...with the Rolling Stones logo. New regulations from the province dictating how cities need to implement the coming upzoning laws are giving city planners nightmares but that's a good thing. Cops and West Van mayors seem to rely on loose interpretations of facts (allegedly). And we have some holiday drink recommendations.LinksMayor moving to dismantle Vancouver Park BoardVancouver's mayor makes a bold step to eliminate the park board — at the risk of dividing his party | CBC NewsMove to abolish Vancouver park board reveals rift in Mayor Ken Sim's ABC party9 points on the ABC Vancouver split over the future of the park boardThe motionThe letter to the ABCD councillorsRenting Vancouver City Hall to Rolling Stones promoters is peak Sim City cringeRegulations, policy manuals issued to help deliver more homes for people faster | BC Gov News'Steady decline' in Vancouver stranger assaults since 2021, police department report revealsWest Vancouver mayor facing probe for election ‘spending irregularities’ - BC | Globalnews.caVancouveratta: How did the Vancouver Christmas Market come to be? | Evolution 107.9

BC's new housing laws mean major shakeups for city councils but maybe that's a good thing since we are in a housing crisis. Plus cities try to make themselves useful in the meantime. Except Surrey and especially except Harrison Hot Springs.LinksLegislation introduced to rein in short-term rentals, deliver more homes for people | BC Gov News More small-scale, multi-unit homes coming to B.C., zoning barriers removed | BC Gov News Legislation introduced to deliver more homes near transit hubs | BC Gov NewsLegislation introduced to streamline delivery of homes, services, infrastructure | BC Gov NewsNew standardized designs will help build more homes quicker | BC Gov NewsEby says governments must step up on housing, can't rely on private sector - Real Estate | Business in VancouverBC looking at Vienna & Singapore models of public housingIt took 5 months, but B.C. Govt FOI response reveals the ten ‘experts’ guiding the hammer of provincial housing policy | CityHallWatchCould BC's push to densify housing around transit hubs threaten Chinatown, Gastown heritage buildings?B.C.’s new housing rules could have ‘enormous unintended consequences,’ warns Coquitlam mayorVancouver council passes 2 housing motionsMotion to densify Shaughnessy housing fails | CityNews VancouverParking minimums eliminated for new developments in West End and Broadway Plan areas | City of VancouverVancouver councillor pitches ‘potentially transformational’ plan for the city’s Downtown Eastside - The Globe and MailDraft 2024 Budget | City of VancouverMayor's budget task force was supposed to report by Oct 3New VPD contract would make officers the highest paid in Canada | Globalnews.caVancouver's Pay Boost for Unionized Staff Increases Budget Pressures | The TyeeElections B.C. audits Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim's political party campaign contributionsTEAM calls for audit of ABC VancouverCorporate donors put Stanley Park's miniature train back on track for Christmas23,000 Stanley Park Bright Night train tickets sell out in 90 minutes - BC | Globalnews.caB.C. Supreme Court rules against Vancouver group’s challenge to supportive-housing project - BC | Globalnews.caMinister’s statement on appointment of administrator to act in place of Surrey Police Board | BC Gov NewsAnother Surrey lawsuitB.C. mayor asks council to approve hiring investigator to find 'mole' writing critical letters about him | CBC NewsVancouveratta: Slumach.ca

Social housing at Little Mountain continues to be the most aggravating story in the City of Vancouver, and it just got worse. Boyle wants red light and speed cameras in the city, but ABC wants further study. The cops are using their political capital. The Park Board is protecting golf courses. The city wants to save Britannia Community Centre but possibly eliminate the Beach Ave bike lane.Further afield, Metro plows ahead with development fee increases, Richmond goes all in on cars and Port Coquitlam does an about face on a "controversial" daycare.LinksLittle Mountain developer says social housing requirement stalling progress on market condosA bit of history (thread)Results of the vote (McElroy on Twitter) Vancouver city councillor criticizes amendment that calls for further study of intersection camerasVancouver police arrest 2 after raids on Drug User Liberation Front | CBC NewsVancouver police bust three storefronts selling psilocybin and psychedelicsVancouver police announce 258 arrests in latest violent shoplifting crackdown - BC | Globalnews.caB.C. coalition seeks 'critical' crackdown on violent retail crime | CTV NewsVancouver Park Board again rejects calls to convert golf courses into housing | CBC NewsMaster plan for Britannia community centre may get sidetracked | Vancouver SunCyclists concerned about proposed West End waterfront revitalization planMetro Vancouver approves development charge increase No BRT, no RapidBus: Richmond City Council rejects TransLink's proposed route to MetrotownPoCo council reverses previous decision, approves Grant Avenue daycareVancouveratta: Chinese Canadian Museum

Surrey sues the province, who's about to crush them with legislation. Vancouver seeks a new city planner to build the homes Ken Sim is hoping his new plan will allow, if he's not too busy filing complaints against political rivals. Burnaby allows laneway houses but misses out on federal funding as Metro Vancouver's new development fees are too high. And Port Moody council approves a new development despite a marathon of controversy.LinksCity of Surrey launches court proceeding to halt police transition (City announcement with petition)Surrey launches policing review in B.C. Supreme Court | CityNews VancouverMinister’s statement on Surrey policing | BC Gov NewsCity of Vancouver parts ways with chief plannerVancouver council approves ‘missing middle’ motion allowing up to 8 homes per lot - BC | Globalnews.caDan Fumano: Vancouver Mayor Sim and ABC majority pledge housing actionKen Sim housing motionVancouver City Council to consider review on how view cones impact housing100 Cops, Not Even 10 Nurses | The TyeeDan Fumano: Vancouver council eyes loosening rent limits to boost constructionKen Sim Tried to Stop a Councillor From Talking. Will It Happen Again? | The TyeeVancouver mayor's 2nd conduct complaint against city councillor upheldIntegrity Commissioner Report COVIC-005: Complaint against Councillor Christine BoyleChristine Boyle spent $7K to defend complaint from Ken Sim - Vancouver Is AwesomeDan Fumano: Major Vancouver labour group changes direction, throws support behind one partyDevelopment Cost Charge Revisions | Metro VancouverFeds postpone housing funding for 2 of B.C.'s biggest cities amid concern over development fees | CBC NewsFederal housing minister's 'fiasco' flip-flop on housing funds puzzles B.C. mayors'A significant step forward': Laneway housing legalized in BurnabyBurnaby council says no to Metrotown city hall after public backlashWhen is a tour actually a meeting, a Port Moody councillor wants to know. But the rules aren't entirely clearMLA’s Coronation Park letter surprising and ‘disappointing,’ responds developer - TriCities DispatchMLAs letter shows lack of understanding and lack of respect, Mayor writes - TriCities DispatchBurns Bog - Wikipedia

The latest threat to neighbourhood character: Young children.Also: Paying people to speak at public hearings, selling off school board land, staffing the mayor's office, banning Hookah shops, developing Coquitlam and Burnaby.LinksVancouver graffiti for climate change action (inspiration for the song Heat Dome)Dan Fumano: How a Vancouver neighbourhood fought, and defeated, a daycareDan Fumano: Vancouver parents desperate for daycare slam city hall rejectionDan Fumano: Vancouver councillors promise action after daycare's rejectionRental housing tower approval rescinded after developer paid supporters in public hearingVancouver School Board tells judge it is considering selling a prime piece of land - The Globe and MailNew staff at the Mayor's OfficeA look at who's who in Ken Sim's officeVancouver bylaw official tries to close hookah shops - Retail & ManufacturingEra of building single-family home neighbourhoods is over: Coquitlam mayorCoquitlam should build 'conventional' townhomes: councillorWhy Burnaby Decided to Develop Its Own Housing | The TyeeThis Pride anthem was written in Vancouver — inspired by a local landmark | CBC News

We can't have nice things: We can't have a spa, we can't have the polar bears, we can't have a mural, we can't have the RCMP in Surrey, we can't have temporary modular housing and we can't have water. But we can have a beer at Khatsalano.LinksVancouver mayor shotguns beer at outdoor festival | CBC.caCouncillor doesn't regret shotgunning drink with Vancouver mayor, does regret it was vodka cream soda | CBC NewsDecision on Surrey Police Service ensures public safety in Surrey, the province | BC Gov News5 things to know as B.C. orders Surrey to continue transition to municipal police forceSurrey police decision draws mixed reaction | CityNews VancouverSurrey Mayor Brenda Locke to 'explore options' as B.C. shuts down bid to stay with RCMPMissing middle housing motion set for Vancouver city council vote - Real EstateCould the Missing Middle Solve the Housing Crisis? | The WalrusDan Fumano: Modular housing was meant to be temporary. ABC wants to make sure it stays that wayAfter 15 Years, Little Mountain’s Housing Promise Still Looks Empty | The TyeeSome Vancouver residents unhappy about park board leaving Vancouver ponds dry | CBC NewsVancouver hands out more than $71000 in water restriction fines as drought intensifiesRelief in the works to help with Stanley Park's weekend traffic jams | Vancouver SunVancouver orders removal of ‘iconic’ rat mural at Commercial Drive brewery - BC | Globalnews.caDan Fumano: Politicians 'must be open to critique': Vancouver staff respond to council's effort to stifle criticismNearly 11000 abusive tweets targeted Vancouver and Surrey election candidatesVancouverattaThe Stanley Park Zoo, A Vancouver Institution Until 1996 – Scout MagazineA spa in Stanley Park's polar bear enclosure? Park board chair would 'love to see' idea move forward | CBC NewsJustin McElroy video on the spa ideaWe also can't ever have perfect audio quality - apologies for the bit of echo in here, we reduced as much as we could.

Surrey policing drama, disqualifications, ethics issues, car-free pilots and mean girls.LinksOlivia Chow requests to take office July 12, says first order of business is housingSurrey mayor threatens to call for inquiry into policing transition after Farnworth’s ultimatumSurrey mayor levels allegations of bullying and misogyny as policing debate shows no sign of ending | CBC NewsSurrey mayor declined meetings with Surrey Police while reinstating RCMP - The Globe and MailRob Shaw: RCMP union tells province to respect Surrey council's wish to retain its Mounties force - Economy, Law & Politics | Business in VancouverLocke campaigning hard for case for retaining Surrey RCMP - Surrey Now-LeaderSurrey finds councillor in conflict of interest | CityNews VancouverSurrey Ethics Commissioner Investigation Report: Complaint M0323Progress Vancouver Deregistered, Candidates Disqualified | Elections BCMark Marissen statementElectoral Area A candidates fail to file election finance statements | Georgia Straight Vancouver's News & Entertainment WeeklyABC Vancouver councillor blocks citizen on Twitter, triggers integrity commissioner reviewMihai Cirstea tweets re Yew StWhat does this puzzling new Vancouver road marking mean?Follow up tweetsBrynn Davidson tweetVancouver permit board conditionally approves controversial Chinatown condo project | CBC NewsEstimated $360,000 cost to repair Stanley Park miniature train | UrbanizedDocuments reveal funding issues, safety concerns for shuttered Stanley Park train - BC | Globalnews.ca'Deeply unserious city': Vancouver park slide removed due to noise complaintsNew West school trustee faces calls to resign for using a fake Twitter account to trollNew Westminster parents, school board call on trustee to resign for Twitter trolling | CBC NewsNorth Vancouver RCMP explain why demonstrators aren't being removed from Highway 1 overpasses | CTV NewsWest Vancouver Mayor Mark Sager investigated for workplace bullying - North Shore News‘We’re not going to allow it in our city’: Port Coquitlam bans open drug use in public | Globalnews.caTownship of Langley exploring ways to save Twilight Drive-In - BC | Globalnews.caSlices of the city: A brief history of Vancouver told through pizza

A jury convened by a Coroner's Inquest has deemed the death of Myles Gray to be a homicide, seven years after he was dead following an altercation with Vancouver Police. But this is only the latest in a long history of challenges for policing in Vancouver. Meanwhile, the province has recommended Surrey continue transitioning to the Surrey Police Service and Brenda Locke refuses to read the reasons why.Vancouver Council opts to make Gastown car free but also wants to give developers a big cheque. Burnaby is still figuring out the Alternative Approval Process and considering moving city hall.And the Park Board mulls a goose cull.LinksMyles Gray inquest: Death deemed homicide in Vancouver police beating - BC | Globalnews.ca Vancouver police officers claim union reps told them not to take notes after death of Myles Gray | CBC NewsFirefighters say VPD officers told them not to check Myles Gray's condition in last moments: report | CBC NewsJury VerdictStop ignoring the brutal, racist history of the Vancouver Police Department | Xtra Magazine Surrey police decision: Mayor locks in on keeping RCMP despite minister’s recommendation | Globalnews.caSurrey police: Mayor vows to keep RCMP, citing lack of detail on B.C.’s position - BC | Globalnews.caSurrey policing decision stalled by ‘untenable’ non-disclosure agreement: Mayor - BC | Globalnews.ca Township of Langley announces split over policing with City of Langley | CBC NewsMunicipal debates renew push for regional policing in B.C. | Globalnews.caMan arrested for selling hard drugs from B.C. kiosk gears up for Charter challenge - BC | Globalnews.caGastown’s facelift, car-free pilot program gets thumbs up from Vancouver council - BC | Globalnews.caVancouver council takes heat for vote to refund millions in Empty Homes Tax to developers - BC | Globalnews.ca'Off the rails': Burnaby staff say council can't ban controversial voting process'Civic heart': Burnaby wants to build a new city hall in MetrotownHelp keep Vancouver’s Canada goose population in checkWhy are there so many geese in Metro Vancouver? | CBC NewsCanada goose - WikipediaHere's how the Vancouver Park Board is proposing to control the goose populationVancouver Park Board approves 'lethal removal' plan to control Canada goose population | CBC News

Ken Sim clears Hastings Street and has thoughts on housing. Brenda Locke stands by her interpretation of a meeting.LinksVancouver police, city staff begin removing encampment on East Hastings Street | CBC NewsCity of Vancouver document calls for using police to speed up clearing DTES street campsBack on Vancouver's Hastings Street with no tent, no mattress and nowhere to goVancouver readies 'quick response teams' in case tents return to East Hastings Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim brings in outside experts to review city budgetCity of Vancouver to pre-zone Cambie Corridor properties to speed up 1600 new townhomesTeam behind Army & Navy project asks city to approve new development - The Globe and MailPlan to build single-family home on nine-foot-wide Vancouver lot rejected by cityJustin McElroy on Twitter: "Ken Sim floats the idea.."Vancouver to allow drinking in public plazas year-roundStatement from the Mayor: Metro Vancouver Mayor’s Committee Unanimously Supports Retaining Surrey RCMPSurrey RCMP comments from mayor misleading: councillors | CityNews VancouverSurrey mayor stands by statements as rivals accuse her of issuing ‘false press release’Can You Attend a Vancouver School Board Meeting In Person? | The TyeeEditorial: Bring back my favourite cancelled showIllegally-installed plaques commemorating a Vancouver bus route a mystery, says city

The Globe and Mail's exclusive claims China attempted to interfere in Vancouver's 2022 election and councillor Lenny Zhou is in the crosshairs. The Broadway Plan is up for a series of votes, ABC wants grant recipients to be nicer and a roundup of other recent news.LinksChina’s Vancouver consulate interfered in 2022 municipal election, according to CSIS - The Globe and Mail Vancouver councillor refutes 'absolutely nonsense' suggestion he is pro-Beijing supporterRussil Wvong reactionFormer Vancouver mayor Kennedy Stewart’s campaign fails to pay bill to small business owner - BC | Globalnews.caFormer Vancouver mayor Kennedy Stewart awarded $100K to cover cost of fighting NPA defamation case | CBC NewsBroadway Plan moves full speed ahead, council votes against pace-of-change policyVancouver City Council to eliminate southward view cones of City Hall | UrbanizedVancouver Broadway bike lanes not likelyDan Fumano: Non-profits seeking funds must be 'respectful,' Vancouver council saysHelp wanted: B.C. hiring municipal advisor to assist local governments | CBC NewsB.C. councillor resigns after referring to mayor as 'Mr. Hitler' | CBC NewsTransLink announces first real estate development projectSquamish Nation to engage in land planning processBurnaby wants feedback on laneway housing rules: 1 parking spot required, 1500 sq. ft. allowedCouncil special meeting March 20 to reconsider Alternative Approval Process | City of BurnabySpanish company targeted in Metro lawsuit cites letter by Coquitlam mayor in bid to question official - Tri-City NewsTransLink gets $479M from B.C. government to help address declining ridership | Globalnews.caPhoto credit: Flickr/chispita_666

Vancouver passes a budget that "sucks" and kills the Living Wage. Progress Vancouver admits to breaking election financing laws. And the City is clearing tents and considering a new hotel.Meanwhile, Burnaby is running an "alternative approval process" for a green waste facility, Surrey cops allege conflicts of interest and Harrison Hot Springs appeals to the Inspector of Municipalities to fix its council.Mission school board has banned an extremist group from future presentation and Coquitlam council applauds pro-LGBTQ+ students.And how you can be in the City of Vancouver's Book of Freedoms.LinksVancouver passes new budget with 10.7% property tax increase | CBC NewsText of ABC budget amendmentWhy can one Metro Vancouver municipality keep property taxes much lower than others?City of Vancouver backs away from living wage pledge after council vote in closed meeting | CBC NewsStatement on City of Vancouver's decision to withdraw as Living Wage EmployerWorking for a Living Wage ReportDefeated Vancouver mayoral hopeful Marissen accepted an illegal loan for Progress Vancouver campaign - Economy, Law & PoliticsProgress Vancouver financing reportVancouver's efforts to remove DTES tent city residents “a violation of human rights”: advocate32-storey hotel with 578 rooms and rooftop destination restaurant proposed for downtown Vancouver (RENDERINGS)Have your say: Burnaby residents can vote on removal of parkland for green waste facilityBurnaby asks voters to decide on removing 21 acres of parklandAlternative approval process for local government - Province of British ColumbiaCity opens feedback opportunity for park dedication removal | City of Burnaby (forms here) Surrey Police Union requests ethics probe into councillor | CityNews VancouverSurrey Council Code of Conduct Bylaw, 2020, No. 20020Chaos at council: Harrison Hot Springs politicians beg for help | Fraser Valley CurrentBC school district bans anti-LGBTQ group from presenting at board meetings - Campbell River Mirror'You had us at hello,' Coquitlam mayor tells Best students for Pride flag, event - Tri-City NewsFreedom of the City | City of VancouverFreedom of the City honorees prior to 2010 | City of Vancouver Photo credit: flickr/Taylor McBride

Elections BC has released the financial reports from the 2022 municipal elections and we can see how efficient each party's spending was. Meanwhile, the staff report from the Climate Emergency Action Plan is pretty bleak and ABC opted to slash the climate justice charter from its further implementation. This prompted a question of whether ABC is predetermining outcomes of council votes (probably), which is better than in New West where they just have too many votes.Back in Vancouver, successful votes mean social housing near the Italian Cultural Centre and the end of the single use cup fee. It also means the end of the Stanley Park bike lane - at least until another round of consultations is completed on installing a permanent lane. Until then, feel free to join Critical Mass once again on the last Friday of every month.The cops and nurses plan turns out to be just cops. Langley SkyTrain is on track. And Surrey homeowners will pay more but not 55% more.And in schools, Vancouver removes a racists' name, Coquitlam students want pride events and Chilliwack residents want to ban books.In our Vancouveratta, Cultus Lake sure is nice.LinksAdding missing middle housing and simplifying regulations in low density neighbourhoods | Shape Your City Vancouver2022 General Local Elections Disclosure Statements AvailableABC Vancouver spent $2M to elect Ken Sim and running matesLocal political parties in B.C. nearly double their spending in 2022's election compared to 2018 | CBC News'A positive vibe': 100 days in, Vancouver's mayor talks about the goals of SimCity | CBC NewsKareem Allam resigns as Mayor's chief of staffClimate Emergency Action Plan staff presentationClimate equity working group 'disappointed' after Vancouver city council rejects climate justice charter | CBC NewsFry suggests ABC caucused before meetingIn New Westminster, heightened emotions about many more motionsVancouver approves social housing near Italian Cultural CentreVancouver city council gets rid of single use cup feeStanley Park temporary bike lane to be removed, debate over permanent lane to continue for another year | CBC News"Mad as hell": Critical Mass Vancouver returns following Stanley Park bike lane decisionFollow @CriticalMassVanRe-funding the police? No plan for Vancouver to hire 100 mental health nurses to pair with cops | CTV NewsSurrey-Langley SkyTrain line on track to open in late 2028, project director tells Surrey councilSurrey tax increase proposed to fund RCMP | CityNews VancouverJustin McElroy on Twitter: "The Vancouver School Board has unanimously approved changing the name of Lord Roberts Elementary. It follows a multi-year campaign by the parent advisory council, who said the name was inappropriate given Roberts' use of concentration camps during the Boer War." / TwitterCoquitlam students make emotional plea for Pride event to show they're 'not alone'New-look Chilliwack school board spars over library books and parental rightsCultus Lake, British Columbia - WikipediaCULTUS LAKE PARK BOARDCULTUS LAKE PARK BOARD INFORMATION

Whether Gregorian or Lunar, Happy New Year.We're back to look at missing middle initiatives in Victoria and Vancouver. Plus what's hot and not for ABC. Surrey won't have an answer on policing anytime soon. And Kennedy Stewart is in the news once more.LinksVictoria council adopts divisive missing middle housing programMissing Middle Housing Initiative | Have Your Say'Plex appeal: Vancouver eyeing six-unit housing in low-density neighbourhoodsVancouver staff presentation and reportHere are the transit projects Metro Van mayors want in the next decade | CBC News .Minister’s statement on Surrey policing transition | BC Gov News Richard Zussman on Twitter: "NEW - Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke says Surrey residents will have to pay a one-time tax increase of 55%, in addition to the normal tax rate set by council to pay for Surrey Police Service transition if B.C. Government rejects proposal to stay with RCMP. #bcpoli" / TwitterABC defends axing Vancouver Renter Office, citing ‘duplication of service’ - BC | Globalnews.caDan Fumano: 'Send a message': ABC-majority council putting stamp on city prioritiesRELEASE: ABC majority kills Vancouver Renters Office, leaving Vancouver renters in the coldABC Chinatown moneyABC councillor aims to scrap Vancouver's 25-cent single-use cup fee by summerDespite Claims, School Liaison Officers Received No Special Training | The TyeeKennedy Stewart announces new job and book"Is this for real?": Kennedy Stewart book announcement receives harsh negative reactionPhotos: Hundreds counter anti-Drag Queen Story Time protest in CoquitlamVancouveratta: Check out these historic photos of Vancouver Chinese New Year Parades through the ages

Motions are passing unanimously at council but marginally more controversially at Park Board. The planning department is a mess, as is policing south of the Fraser. And sculptures!LinksBoyle nonprofit housing motion passesVancouver City Council approves exploring expediting social housing up to 12 storeys Text of the Klassen amendment Hardwick abstained from speakingCAC motion passes Vancouver Park Board approves immediate removal of Stanley Park Drive bike lane Thousands of Vancouver housing units in limbo in tug-of-war between developers, city planners - The Globe and MailCity of Vancouver must reconsider controversial Chinatown development application, court rules Court ruling In defense of the "gentrification building" Surrey council votes to scrap police transition, B.C. public safety minister respondsSurrey policing: 'Power politics' at play in final decision, says criminologistLangley, the township, is interested in breaking up with Langley, the city, on RCMP costs | CBC NewsNew Langley Township council looks to throw out predecessors’ plansPort Moody mayor fined $200 by Elections BC over campaign's phone-call promotionsWest Vancouver mayor issued citation by Law Society of B.C. over handling of will | CBC NewsKamloops mayor recuses himself from entire council meeting in 'surprising' move | CBC NewsSecurity company says Kamloops mayor directed presence to his auto dealershipColin Basran investigatedHousing on the way to support people living on Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside | BC Gov NewsVancouver elementary school renamed wek̓ʷan̓əs tə syaqʷəm in Musqueam name gifting ceremony | CBC NewsMove the East Van cross?217.5 Arc x 13 | Vancouver Biennale

Doug McCallum is a free man, having been found not guilty of mischief. Ken Sim began his stint as Mayor of Vancouver with a trip to Qatar to watch the world cup. But he was back in time for budget debates, where he questioned the revenue generating possibilities of the library. There's lots more coming up at council, the regional boards see some shakeups and UBC and Translink want to build houses.Former Surrey mayor Doug McCallum found not guilty of public mischief | CBC NewsDan Fumano: FIFA World Cup-bound Mayor Sim to miss police board budget meetingVancouver police request $383 million budget for 2023City needs 7% tax increase'We misunderstood': Vancouver mayor's public safety plan not being funded by the province after allCongestion tax is deadVancouver council votes to adopt controversial definition of antisemitism | CBC NewsRELEASE: Councillor Boyle returns non-market housing motion to City HallVancouver City Council to overhaul developer community amenity contributions with fixed ratesBody cam motion goes to council City of Vancouver ends $320,000 Block Stewardship contract awarded to VANDU - BC | Globalnews.caPark board set to debate removing Stanley Park bike laneNew Surrey mayor accused of RCMP bias while chairing her first police board meeting - BC | Globalnews.caProvince setting a high bar for dumping municipal force in Surrey | Vancouver SunLack of transit a 'quality of life issue,' says Port Coquitlam Mayor Brad WestMetro Vancouver elects Delta mayor George Harvie as new chair of the boardDelta's Harvie wants to slow rising Metro costs to homeownersUBC outlines Vancouver campus expansion and 24,000 more residents | UrbanizedTransLink eyeing big development at Coquitlam Central Station park and ride | UrbanizedBroadway Subway opening delayed to 2026 | UrbanizedSquamish strongly objects to West Vancouver council dropping reading of land acknowledgment at meetingsRichmond city council votes to establish reconciliation policy, which could include land acknowledgments | CBC NewsVancouveratta2006 storms in Vancouver - WikipediaRemembering the B.C. windstorm of 2006 | CBC News

Everyone is on trial this week as Doug McCallum is in court, the VPD put themselves in the hotseat attempting to press the case against social spending in the DTES and council faces its first tests.Kennedy Stewart quits TwitterWitness at outgoing Surrey mayor's trial testifies she told him she would be the one 'that brought him down' | CBC NewsDoug McCallum foot picsSurrey Police Union says 94% of members have 'no intention' of joining RCMP | CBC NewsRob Shaw: Leaked VPD report an inflated work of fiction - Commentary | Business in VancouverIncoming B.C. premier David Eby says province will take over coordinating approach to Downtown Eastside 26 things that should happen in Vancouver in the next four years | UrbanizedPlan to demolish Vancouver’s viaducts needs a fresh look, ABC councillor says - BC | Globalnews.caCouncil agenda November 15, 2022Parents engage lawyer to warn VSB of incoming trusteeTrustee-elect on Vancouver School Board deemed 'ineligible individual' by Canada Revenue AgencyAmy Lubik wins second term on Port Moody council in judicial tiebreaker3-storey home to be built on tiny lot in Vancouver single-family neighbourhood | UrbanizedStanley Park train shut down for ChristmasVictory Square ceremony

Ian and Matthew react to the results of the 2022 Vancouver municipal election and check in across the environs.2022 Election unofficial results - chart view53 Years Ago, Vancouver’s Very Own Fool Turned This City Upside Down | MONTECRISTO

One final look at the election with just under two days until we have the results. We dig into Surrey a bit more and then look at the other interesting races to follow.Mainstreet PollLeger PollMetro Vancouver’s Spiciest Local Elections | The TyeeFive-way race for mayor in Maple Ridge as nominations closeIn this B.C. town, big money is bulldozing democracy ⋆ The BreachHow anonymous social media groups are changing small town elections in B.C. | CBC NewsRushed this one out the door so apologies for any audio quality issues.Image via Wikimedia

A recap of how the campaigns have gone and who we think deserves a vote in Vancouver.Link mentioned: Vancouver Police Union breaks with tradition and endorses ABC Vancouver for municipal election | CBC News

Ian's on vacation so Brent Richter from North Shore News joins Matthew to break down the state of the races in the North Vancouvers and West Vancouver.

The candidate lists are finalized and Vancouver voters once again have over a hundred names to choose from. Stewart Prest (@StewartPrest) calls in to discuss the implications for voters and whether this makes electoral reform a necessity.Then we get into some of the latest policy announcements, what the new council will have to do with and threats against Port Coquitlam’s mayor.Who is running in the election | City of VancouverPlan Your Vote | City of VancouverMayor Stewart Announces Health and Addictions Response Team (HART)ABC Vancouver announces plans to address misogyny, homophobia, and sexual violence in sport through groundbreaking ‘safe sport officer’ programOne Burnaby releases platformTaller towers, more rental homes in revised proposal at Commercial-Broadway Station | UrbanizedSenior pleads guilty to threatening to kill Port Coquitlam Mayor Brad West - Tri-City NewsBoo: Stanley Park Ghost Train cancelled for 3rd consecutive year - BC | Globalnews.caVancouveratta - Trains in Stanley ParkStanley Park Train 50th AnniversaryRide the Stanley Park TrainWho We Are | Mortal Coil Performance

The final nominations are in and Vancouver is about to do its draw for the random ballot order. But some candidates, notably the entire NPA, wants to include non-Latin characters in their names.Women Transforming Cities released a report card where most candidates seemingly endorse everything, even things they previously voted against--with a few notable exceptions.The Vancouver Greens expel a candidate who sold their data to Progress Vancouver. And the NPA has a candidate who tells landlords to poop in their tenant's toilets.Pitt Meadows, Port Coquitlam and Burnaby won't be having elections for Mayor. Read what Ian had to say to the Burnaby Beacon about that.The NPA are for public safety while OneCity is for mental health response teams and ending homelessness.Forward Together has the start of a housing plan, which is not as comprehensive as those we've previously discussed.Forward is also facing criticism for an alleged fundraiser list. Frances Bula, as always, has more.ABC and COPE released their donor lists.Leger found voters in Vancouver and Surrey are mad as hell but those in Burnaby and Coquitlam are quite happy.And OneCity has thoughts about School Board.Our Vancouveratta takes us to Little Mountain Sound Studios.

Unlike One Burnaby, the Cambie Report is not pausing to observe the Queen's death.Mario Canseco (@mario_canseco) joins us to talk about the latest poll from Research CO.OneCity has started releasing its You Belong in Vancouver platform with planks on housing and community power. See also Dan Fumano's coverage. Progress Vancouver also dropped their housing plan. We compare and contrast.ABC wants cops to wear body cams, something not strongly supported by the evidence.Mike Howell speaks to Colleen Hardwick and the result is a wild ride.Justin McElroy continues to do great work looking at council voting records.Good news for the future of Hogan's Alley.Nigel Malkin ends his campaign for West Vancouver council.Upzoning Victoria hits a major snag.And our Vancouveratta looks at Lake City Way station, the only in-fill station until Capstan is completed.Cover art via Bryn Davidson @Lanefab