Over the past few years, the public has consistently identified priority issues they see facing the city. Affordability and housing continue to be high priorities for people across the city. Residents and businesses alike want strong fiscal management at City Hall, improved public transit and safe, healthy neighbourhoods with a diverse range of accessible community and recreational facilities.
Woodwards Building
Affordable housing and homelessness continues to be an important priority for Council. Much progress has been made, with an 82% drop in street homelessness since 2008, and more than $300 million in investment secured from the BC government for more than 1,500 units of supportive housing throughout Vancouver. Council has also developed a detailed, 10-year plan to create 38,000 new affordable housing units throughout the city.
The environment also continues to be another important priority, with the Greenest City Action Plan in full swing. This bold program, to make Vancouver the world’s greenest city by 2020, is positioning our city as a world leader in the new green economy. Reducing our waste, increasing our energy efficiency, building cleaner transportation—all this not only fosters a greener city, but a more efficient, competitive and livable one. And it opens the door for new jobs and innovative green enterprise.
A thriving, diverse economy with opportunity for everyone is the foundation of a livable city. Council has targeted support for key job-creating industries, from high-growth sectors such as clean technology and digital media, to investing in our port. At the same time, we’re supporting our world-class creative sector: the artists and performers who bring vibrancy to our city. Innovation and entrepreneurship are crucial to Vancouver’s economy.
And finally, the strength, vitality and safety of our neighbourhoods is what makes Vancouver such a desirable place to live. We need to continue to invest in our communities and parks, keep our streets safe and ensure that we have opportunities to celebrate and engage in our public spaces.