What an incredible evening. It was wonderful to see families, friends, and visitors filling our waterfront to enjoy one of Vancouver's great summer traditions.
The show was made even more special by celebrating some of the defining moments in our city's history, with music inspired by Expo 86, the 2010 Olympic Winter Games, and the World Cup.
When the Celebration of Light was cancelled, your ABC Vancouver team believed Vancouver couldn't afford to lose one of its few free, family-friendly summer events.
We brought forward a plan to ensure this tradition continued, supporting local businesses, bringing people together, and celebrating everything that makes our city special.
The motion passed with the support of the ABC Vancouver team. Councillors Pete Fry, Sean Orr, and Lucy Maloney voted against it, while Councillor Rebecca Bligh was absent.
The incredible turnout—and the smiles on the faces of thousands of Vancouverites—speak for themselves.
Your ABC Vancouver team is committed to keeping Vancouver safe and affordable while investing in the public spaces, community events, and core services that matter most to you.
Thank you to @darko_stan for capturing this incredible footage and the amazing video..
#ABCVancouver #PublicSafety #Affordability #Fireworks
Granville Street is showing what's possible when we invest in both safety and vibrant public spaces.
Thanks to the success of the pedestrian zone, more people are enjoying downtown, local businesses are seeing a boost, and families and residents are rediscovering one of Vancouver's most iconic streets.
Now it's time to build on that success with a long-term vision that creates welcoming public spaces, supports local businesses, and makes downtown an even better place to live, work, and visit.
None of these great spaces would be possible without streets where you feel safe.
Your ABC Vancouver team is committed to keeping Vancouver safe and affordable while investing in the public spaces and core services that matter most to you.
#ABCVancouver #PublicSafety #Affordability
Ken Sim and your ABC Vancouver team are committed to delivering a safe, affordable city while investing in the core services that matter most to you.
That's why we're making a historic $400 million investment to renew and rebuild community centres across Vancouver while continuing to invest in the parks and public spaces that bring our neighbourhoods together.
Let's keep Vancouver safe, affordable, and focused on the services that matter most to you.
#ABCVancouver #PublicSafety #Affordability
For years, British Columbia expanded drug consumption sites while overdose deaths continued to soar.
Now, evidence from across Canada demonstrates the dangerous consequences of this approach.
Dr. Julian Somers shows us how in Canadian jurisdictions that have closed consumption sites while expanding recovery and treatment services, deaths have declined greatly.
In Alberta, research found that when a consumption site closed and recovery supports increased, overdose deaths declined while more people entered treatment.
In Ontario, nine publicly funded consumption sites transitioned to recovery-focused services.
In the months that followed, Toronto recorded 41% fewer overdose deaths than during the same period the previous year.
Here in British Columbia, overdose deaths have also declined from the record highs seen during the pandemic, including following the closure of the 1060 Howe Street overdose prevention site.
More and more evidence points toward a recovery-focused approach that helps people rebuild their lives—not simply maintain addiction.
Watch Dr. Julian Somers discuss why it’s time to rethink our approach.
Your ABC Vancouver team is going to keep fighting for the right approaches to addiction and recovery that don’t leave people suffering where they are.
We will stand with Vancouver residents who are telling us they want a safe and affordable city.
#abcvancouver #publicsafety #affordability
Serving as your Vancouver City Councillor over the past four years has been a tremendous honour.
As a downtown resident, I've seen firsthand both the challenges our city has faced and the progress we've made together. Working alongside Mayor Ken Sim and the ABC Vancouver team, we've stood up for public safety, fought to get people the help they need, supported local businesses, invested in the services people rely on, lowered taxes, and worked to make Vancouver more affordable and filled with public spaces you can enjoy.
But there's still more work to do.
This election is about protecting the progress we've made and continuing to build a city that is safe, affordable, and focused on the basics.
I'm committed to keeping listening to you, standing up for our neighbourhoods, and ensuring City Hall continues to deliver practical results that make a difference in your life - not politics.
We can't afford to go backward.
Together, let's keep Vancouver safe, affordable, and moving forward. I'd be honoured to earn your support again this fall.
#ABCVancouver #PublicSafety #Affordability #vanpoli #vancouver
What you do with your home should be your choice.
Your ABC Vancouver team has listened to residents and directed staff to cancel the proposed Villages Plan after concerns were raised about mandatory zoning in some neighbourhoods.
We believe Vancouver needs more housing—but it must be done thoughtfully. That means adding homes where they make sense while respecting existing neighbourhoods and the people who have worked hard and invested their lives into their homes.
No homeowner should feel that City Hall is deciding the future of their property without their voice being heard.
We heard your concerns loud and clear and have directed staff to stop and end the plan immediately.
Our goal is simple: build more housing, protect property rights, and keep Vancouver a city of diverse neighbourhoods—not one-size-fits-all development.
Your ABC Vancouver team remains committed to making Vancouver safe, affordable, and a great place to call home.
#abcvancouver #publicsafety #affordability
Serving as your Vancouver City Councillor has been one of the greatest honours of my life.
I was born and raised in Vancouver, and I care deeply about this city and the people who call it home. Over the past four years, I've had the privilege of working alongside Mayor Ken Sim and the ABC Vancouver team to make our streets safer, support local businesses, invest in families, and bring greater accountability to how your tax dollars are spent.
But the job isn't finished.
This election is about protecting the progress we've made and continuing to build a city that is safer, more affordable, and focused on the basics. I'm committed to keeping taxes low, supporting local businesses, strengthening neighbourhoods, and ensuring City Hall delivers practical results—not politics.
We can't afford to go backward. Together, let's keep Vancouver safe, affordable, and moving forward. I'd be honoured to earn your support.
#ABCVancouver #PublicSafety #Affordability #mikeklassen
Gastown resident Michelle shared with Mayor Ken Sim why she's optimistic about the future of her neighbourhood.
Having moved to Gastown just before your ABC Vancouver team was elected, Michelle has seen firsthand the progress that's been made over the last four years. From cleaner streets and improved public safety to new investment and renewed energy, she believes Gastown is moving in the right direction.
She also spoke about the importance of continuing that momentum. There's still more work to do, but she doesn't want to see Vancouver go back to the challenges of the past.
ABC Vancouver is committed to continuing the work of making Vancouver safe and affordable, supporting vibrant neighbourhoods, and ensuring communities like Gastown continue to thrive.
#abcvancouver #publicsafety #affordability
Award-winning Salon Origins owner Denise Meikle shared with Mayor Ken Sim the reality of operating a business next to a drug consumption site.
Denise spoke about the impact on her clients, her staff, and even her suppliers—many of whom became hesitant to come into the neighbourhood because of ongoing safety concerns.
She also shared the personal toll it takes. Running a business in the midst of ongoing disorder wasn’t just hard financially—it was emotionally exhausting. No small business owner should have to carry that burden simply for opening their doors each day.
Businesses shouldn’t have to worry about whether customers, employees, suppliers, or contractors feel safe coming to work.
ABC Vancouver will continue to stand up for Vancouver residents and small businesses by opposing the Province’s failed drug policies and fighting for safer streets, real treatment, and neighbourhoods where people and businesses can thrive.
#abcvancouver #publicsafety #affordability
Vancouver deserves a Park Board that works for Vancouverites.
An ABC majority will deliver safe parks, new community centres, free swimming lessons, affordable recreation, and public pools that are accessible for everyone.
Residents shouldn't have to deal with outdated COVID-era restrictions just to enjoy a public pool. It's time for a Park Board focused on common sense, accessibility, and delivering results.
It's time to deliver the world-class, clean, safe parks and recreation facilities Vancouverites deserve.
#abcvancouver #publicsafety #affordability
Let me start by saying congratulations to Spain and all of your fans for winning this World Cup. It was well earned.
The past two months have been one of the most memorable times for Vancouver. I watched the rollercoaster of emotions play out as fans came to our city to cheer for, and against, teams from around the world while finding common ground as we watched the biggest sporting event on Earth.
To which I’m honoured to be joined by your ABC team to once again to say thank you Vancouver, thank you for an amazing World Cup.
Thank you for celebrating responsibly and for being excellent hosts to our visitors from around the globe.
And thank you to our
- Police officers,
- Firefighters,
- First responders,
- Volunteers,
- Engineers,
- Local businesses,
- And community builders
- and everyone who helped make this World Cup vibrant, unforgettable.
Together, let's keep building a city that's safe, vibrant, and affordable—for the rest of this summer, and for generations to come.
Let’s enjoy the rest of our summer.
#abcvancouver #publicsafety #affordability
Deputy Mayor Sarah Kirby-Yung shared some of our vision for the future of Granville Street—building on its historic past while creating a destination where families from across Vancouver can come together for safe, affordable fun.
Following the tremendous success of the World Cup, we've extended the Granville Street pedestrian zone through the summer.
Every day, more people are enjoying the space, supporting local businesses, and bringing new energy to downtown.
We're excited about what's ahead for Granville Street and public spaces across Vancouver.
But none of this is possible without continued investments in public safety. Safe streets are what make vibrant, affordable, and welcoming public spaces possible.
#abcvancouver #publicsafety #affordability
Councillor Peter Meiszner joined local resident Paul Tolnai to discuss why 900 Helmcken is the wrong location for a drug consumption site.
Situated near homes, a school, parks, businesses, hotels, and major tourist destinations, they also highlighted the Province's failure to meaningfully consult the community—despite the lessons from the previous two overdose prevention sites.
Your ABC Vancouver team is committed to keeping Vancouver safe and affordable, and to standing with residents who deserve to have their voices heard.
#abcvancouver #publicsafety #affordability
I spoke with Matte, who, along with her family, owns a small business in Kitsilano and has raised her children here in Vancouver.
Matte shared her concerns about the changes she saw in our city over many years and why public safety remains so important to her family. Her story is one I hear time and time again when I'm out talking with residents across Vancouver.
People are compassionate. They want those struggling with addiction and mental health challenges to get the help they need. But they also want to feel safe in their own neighbourhoods, support local businesses with confidence, and raise their families in a city where everyone can thrive.
Over the past few years, we've worked hard to restore public safety and get City Hall focused on the core services that matter most. We can't afford to go back to the chaos of the past.
Your ABC Vancouver team is committed to continuing to stand up for public safety while ensuring our most vulnerable residents receive the treatment, recovery, and support they need. That's how we'll keep Vancouver safe, affordable, and moving forward.
#abcvancouver #publicsafety #affordability
Congratulations to Spain on an incredible World Cup victory.
What an amazing few weeks it’s been for Vancouver, for Canada, and for everyone who’s been enjoying this World Cup. Our national team made us proud, but just as importantly, our city showed the world what Vancouver is all about.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you to everyone who helped make this World Cup so special.
Thank you to our residents, businesses, volunteers, police, firefighters, first responders, and the thousands of fans who brought incredible energy to our city.
While the tournament may be over, its legacy is just beginning.
We’re committed to building on that momentum by investing in vibrant public spaces that will continue to bring people together long after the final whistle.
From Granville Street to the Freedom Mobile Arch at the PNE, and through parks, plazas, festivals, concerts, and community events across Vancouver, the legacy of this World Cup will be enjoyed throughout this summer and for many years to come.
Most importantly, we know none of this happens without public safety. Safe streets are the foundation of a vibrant city. When people feel safe, businesses thrive, families spend time together, and communities come alive.
That’s why your ABC Vancouver team will continue working every day to keep Vancouver safe and affordable, while investing in the public spaces and neighbourhoods that bring people together.
Thank you again, Vancouver. You showed the world the very best of our city. Now let’s keep building on that legacy for years to come.
#abcvancouver #publicsafety #affordability
Mayor Ken Sim and Councillor Lisa Dominato visited Hastings Community Centre to talk about what the new Capital Plan means for neighbourhoods across Vancouver.
Hastings Community Centre has served generations of families, seniors, and residents, but like many community centres across the city, it has gone decades without the investment it deserves.
Thanks to the newly approved Capital Plan, Hastings is one of five community centres set to receive major renewal, alongside record investments in parks, roads, sidewalks, libraries, pools, and other community amenities that Vancouverites rely on every day.
Even more importantly, these record investments are being delivered while keeping property tax increases at 0% this year and next.
Your ABC Vancouver team is committed to keeping Vancouver safe and affordable while investing in the community spaces that bring people together and make our neighbourhoods stronger.
@LisaDominato
#abcvancouver #publicsafety #affordability
As we get ready for the exciting World Cup Final this weekend, the atmosphere in Vancouver has been incredible over the past few weeks.
Your ABC Vancouver team has loved getting out, meeting people from across our city and around the world, and seeing Granville Street come alive.
We're also thrilled that the popular pedestrian zones and patios will remain open through Labour Day, giving even more people the opportunity to enjoy everything downtown has to offer.
Councillor Lenny Zhou caught up with some Switzerland fans who were enjoying the festivities and experiencing the best of Vancouver.
Your ABC Vancouver team is committed to keeping Vancouver safe and affordable while creating vibrant public spaces where everyone can continue to come together and enjoy our city.
#abcvancouver #publicsafety #affordability
Record investments in core services that matter to you have been approved by ABC Vancouver.
That’s why today, Mayor Ken Sim and your ABC Vancouver team approved the 2027–2030 Capital Plan—one of the most ambitious investments in Vancouver’s future, with major funding for community centres, pools, roads, sidewalks, parks, public spaces, and neighbourhood infrastructure across the city.
Highlights include:
• A historic $400 million investment in community centres—the largest in Vancouver’s history—including Dunbar, Kerrisdale, Hastings, Roundhouse, and Kensington.
• A new 25m pool at Sunset Park.
• Public space improvements in Gastown.
• Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Garden Pond Renewal.
• Upgrades at Kits Beach and Second Beach.
• A new outdoor pool in Marpole.
• Burrard View Spray Park.
• Beaconsfield Turf Field.
• Vietnamese Cultural Centre feasibility work.
• Exploration of a new 50m competition pool.
• Exploration of a new Collingwood Branch Library.
• Long-term cultural infrastructure renewal.
• A strategy to address roads and sidewalks built on unstable peat.
And after decades of underinvestment, $104 million will be invested in roads and sidewalks to begin restoring the infrastructure Vancouver residents rely on every day.
This Capital Plan is about getting back to the basics. Respecting your tax dollars and Investing them where they belong—in the parks, pools, community centres, roads, sidewalks, and public spaces that families use every day.
We’re committed to continuing to make Vancouver safe, affordable, and focused on the core services that matter most to you.
#abcvancouver #vanpoli #vancouver
Denise is the award-winning owner of Salon Origins, a live-work salon directly across from the location where the Province is proposing a drug consumption site at 900 Helmcken.
Denise has already lived through the impacts of the Murray Hotel SRO and the former drug consumption site at 1060 Howe. Now, just as the closure of that site has brought some relief to the neighbourhood, she's being forced to face the Province moving forward with 900 Helmcken with no consultation.
Denise says no one from the Province has returned her calls. No one from Vancouver Coastal Health has returned her calls. Like many other residents and business owners in the neighbourhood, she fears for her safety and doesn't know what the future holds if this proposal moves ahead.
The people who live and work in this neighbourhood deserve to be heard. They deserve meaningful consultation, safer streets, and solutions that focus on treatment and recovery—not policies that continue to concentrate the impacts of the drug crisis in Vancouver's communities.
Your ABC Vancouver team will continue standing up for residents, businesses, and neighbourhoods while advocating for compassionate care, long-term recovery, and a Vancouver that is safe and affordable for everyone.
#abcvancouver #publicsafety #affordability
It was great to stand with the ABC Vancouver team today to speak directly about how we are going to make the Park Board work for Vancouverites once again.
We've been hearing the frustration about the way the Park Board and its facilities are managed. Vancouver deserves better. An ABC majority on Park Board will focus on delivering new community centres, safe parks, free swimming lessons, affordable recreation programs, and accessible public swimming pools.
The COVID-era restrictions that still make no sense at Kits Pool are indicative of a much greater problem. Swimming should be accessible for everyone. Residents and families shouldn’t have to compete online or plan weeks in advance just to enjoy a public pool.
The choice in this election is clear: an ABC majority that will deliver better facilities, more affordable programs, and long-overdue reforms, or candidates who support the status quo on Park Board and have contributed to years of ineffective management.
#abcvancouver #publicsafety #affordability