City Council is made up of the Mayor and 10 councillors who are elected at large for a 4-year term. The Mayor is the chair of City Council.
The City of Vancouver is governed by the Vancouver Charter and has the power to:
- Pass by-laws regulating businesses, building, noise, and land use
- Buy and sell property
- Collect property taxes and other taxes
- Approve major spending for all parts of the City government
- Take on debt
- Allocate funds for special activities, such as arts and community services
- Set up departments and offices for City services
- Hire staff for City departments and offices
2023 to 2026 Council strategic priorities
Council is working together to build a sustainable city in which everyone can live, work, and thrive.
- Vibrant Vancouver: City Council’s Strategic Priorities 2023 to 2026 outlines 9 strategic objectives and key-aligned work for each.
- Vibrant Vancouver: City Council’s Strategic Priorities Mid-term Progress Report PDF file (7.8 MB) outlines the progress made on these Council priorities.
