WEEKLY UPDATE - JAN 27

Welcome back to the first Weekly Wrap Up of 2025! We had a busy first few days back from recess. There were four big items for downtown and O-day’min.

The first was at Community and Public Services Committee where we gave the green light to implementing changes to stop convenience stores from selling knives. This update to the Business Licence will support EPS with their work and help to keep our communities safer.

At Executive Committee, we had an update on the Winspear expansion. I championed a motion to have the City work with the Winspear on a loan agreement to help complete this flagship project in our downtown. The Winspear expansion will have a huge impact on the vibrancy and economy of the downtown and I'm pleased we found a way to continue supporting it. I'm grateful for the amazing partners we have in our Arts District!

Next we heard an update on the Derelict Residential Property Tax Subclass. In 2024, derelict residential properties were levied with triple the normal property tax. One year on, the results are in and we're seeing this initiative has seen huge success! Roughly 30% of the derelict properties were demolished in 2024 - a big win for our communities and a huge relief to their adjacent neighbours. I was excited to support the expansion of this program, including looking at how it can help tackle derelict commercial properties.

Finally, we had a progress report on adding cell service in cellular connectivity to the LRT tunnels. The need for connectivity was identified over a decade ago and, thanks to a combination of dedicated funding and a project proposal from Telus, we are now able to move forward with it. This will be a big win for everyone taking transit downtown, as cellular connectivity improves both the experience and safety of taking the train. The implementation plan should have it installed at all stations before April 2026!

We ended the week with Public Hearing, which saw a rezoning to support new medium rise housing just south of Central McDougall Park. I'm looking forward to this project providing new housing options for folks looking to move into this great area.

That’s all for last week and see you next Monday!