December 2025: Closing the Year with Affordability, Safety, and Shared Purpose
As 2025 draws to a close and the holiday season settles in, December has been a moment to reflect on the year behind us and the work still ahead. While civic activity naturally slows toward the end of the year, this month underscored how closely our policy decisions are tied to people’s daily lives. From housing and childcare to public safety and economic resilience, the choices we make at City Hall matter deeply for Vancouver families.
Affordability at the Forefront
Affordability remained a central focus throughout December. Council unanimously supported my motion to advance new pathways to attainable homeownership, opening the door to innovative partnership models that help young people, families, and first-time buyers put down roots in Vancouver. This is meaningful progress on one of the city’s most persistent challenges.
I was also pleased to attend the groundbreaking ceremony for the project at 95 Nelson Street in Northeast False Creek. Built on city-owned land, this 28-storey, mixed-use development will deliver 283 non-market homes, a 44-space childcare centre, and a new Firehall 8. It is a strong example of how we can build complete communities by integrating housing, childcare, and emergency services in one place.
Childcare affordability took another step forward with the opening of the new Henry Hudson Elementary School and its rooftop childcare centre. Supported by a $9.7 million City investment and operated by Kitsilano Neighbourhood House, this facility provides care for infants, toddlers, and school-aged children. Co-locating childcare within schools creates a practical, family-friendly hub that helps parents balance work and home life.
Public Safety and Community Wellbeing
Public safety and community health were also front and centre this month. Early in December, I attended the PROSPER Forum on substance prevention, education, and recovery. This non-partisan discussion emphasized evidence-based approaches to the addictions crisis affecting Vancouver and communities across Canada. The message was clear: recovery is real, and policy must balance compassion with accountability to create safer, healthier neighbourhoods.
December included moments of remembrance and gratitude as well. This fall, I joined memorial services honouring first responders, veterans, and those who have made profound sacrifices for our community and country. These moments remind us why supporting those who serve is essential to a safe and resilient city.
Later in the month, Council approved important changes to enable the replacement of aging SROs and the delivery of new social housing in the Downtown Eastside. I listened carefully to residents, advocates, and people with lived experience who spoke at the public hearing. Their concerns are real and deserve respect. At the same time, the status quo has not been working. Aging buildings continue to deteriorate, and outdated rules have blocked viable replacement. Doing nothing was not a neutral option.
The updated approach gives the City better tools to enable safer, more dignified housing, while maintaining strong tenant protections and public oversight. This is about improving safety, stability, and long-term outcomes for people living in the neighbourhood and for the city as a whole.
I was grateful for the opportunity to discuss this decision on CBC Radio’s On the Coast with Gloria Macarenko, and to explain why I supported this plan. (Interview linked here.)
Growing a Strong, Inclusive Economy
Supporting a strong local economy was another key theme this month. Council unanimously passed my motion, co-submitted with Councillor Lenny Zhou, to advance urgent actions from the Vancouver Business Growth Task Force. These reforms will streamline permits, modernize liquor licensing, simplify pop-up approvals, expand temporary occupancy permits, and establish a Small Business Navigator. Together, they cut red tape and help local businesses succeed, especially as we prepare for major events like the FIFA World Cup.
I also met with small business owners affected by ongoing construction along the Broadway Subway corridor. Their frustration is real, and their concerns deserve action, not delay. These businesses are the backbone of our neighbourhoods, and supporting them is critical to maintaining vibrant commercial streets.
Council also took decisive steps to fast-track a Filipino Cultural Centre in Vancouver. This long-anticipated project will create a permanent home for cultural programming, education, and artistic expression, while also contributing to economic vitality in Mount Pleasant. It represents both cultural recognition and smart city-building.
Community, Culture, and Connection
December is also a season of connection. I joined community partners at events like the Hope in the City Breakfast, Salvation Army holiday programs, and visits with South Vancouver Neighbourhood House and Whole Way House in the Downtown Eastside. These organizations deliver essential support with dignity and compassion, especially during the holidays.
I stood with Vancouver’s Jewish community at Hanukkah celebrations, reaffirming solidarity in the face of rising antisemitism and emphasizing that resilience and unity must always prevail over hate.
The month brought moments of civic pride as well. I attended the FIFA World Cup 2026 draw, where Vancouver’s role on the global stage came into sharper focus. On the sports front, it was a thrill to celebrate Vancouver Rise FC and the Vancouver Goldeneyes PWHL team, whose success is helping grow women’s sport and community pride across the city.
Looking Ahead
As we close out 2025, I am proud of the progress we have made together. We have taken concrete steps to improve affordability, strengthen public safety, and grow Vancouver’s economy, while continuing to support culture, community, and care.
Thank you for your ideas, your engagement, and your trust throughout the year. I wish you and your loved ones a safe, restful, and joyful holiday season. I look forward to continuing this work in the new year as we build a Vancouver that is more affordable, safer, and more prosperous for everyone.