July 2026: A Summer of Global Celebration and Local Progress

July was one of the most exhilarating and demanding months I have experienced as a Vancouver City Councillor.

Our city welcomed the world for the FIFA World Cup, hosted extraordinary public celebrations, approved major investments in Vancouver’s future, and continued the detailed work of housing, planning, infrastructure, and community service. I also had the privilege of frequently chairing Council and public hearing meetings as Acting Mayor, including several very long days listening to residents from every corner of Vancouver.

A World Cup to Remember

The FIFA World Cup was an enormous success for Vancouver.

From the electric atmosphere at BC Place to the crowds filling downtown streets and neighbourhood viewing parties, our city showed the world that we can host major international events with energy, warmth, and confidence.

The FIFA Fan Festival at Hastings Park became a gathering place for thousands of residents and visitors. The spectacular Freedom Mobile Arch Amphitheatre proved itself immediately as an extraordinary new venue for live entertainment, match viewing, and community celebration.

The Granville Pedestrian Zone was another standout success. Live music, patios, public art, family activities, and thousands of smiling fans transformed Granville Street into a welcoming civic space. Council voted to extend the pedestrian zone through Labour Day so residents and visitors could continue enjoying downtown at its best.

There were memorable celebrations across Vancouver, including several viewing parties. Walking with Team Canada supporters along the Last Mile and later stepping onto the World Cup pitch at BC Place were moments I will never forget.

These investments leave more than memories. They have created new public spaces, supported local businesses and tourism, and demonstrated what Vancouver can accomplish when we work together.

Investing in Vancouver’s Future

July also brought one of Council’s most consequential decisions of the term: approval of the 2027–2030 Capital Plan.

The plan includes a historic $400 million investment in five community centres, two new pools for South Vancouver, renewal of Kitsilano Pool, improvements to parks and public spaces, and $104 million for roads and sidewalks. These are practical investments in the core services and infrastructure Vancouverites rely upon every day.

I was also pleased that Council approved my motion to explore a flagship technology innovation hub for Vancouver. Our city already has exceptional talent, research institutions, and entrepreneurial ambition. A central hub could help connect those strengths, attract investment, create quality jobs, and help more companies grow and remain here.

Economic opportunity was also highlighted through visits with the Centre for Digital Media, Games Link, construction industry leaders, and Vancouver’s mining and mineral exploration sector.

A Milestone at Little Mountain

One of the most personally meaningful events of the month was emceeing the opening of the new City-owned community building at Little Mountain.

The project includes 48 affordable homes, a 69-space childcare centre, the new Little Mountain Neighbourhood House, public gathering space, and artwork by Musqueam artist Susan Point.

Little Mountain has had a complex history. Seeing families welcomed into new homes and community services finally delivered made this opening especially resonant for me. It is a reminder that complex projects require persistence, partnership, and an unwavering focus on the people waiting for results.

Community, Culture, and Connection

July’s calendar reflected the remarkable diversity and spirit of Vancouver.

I celebrated Canada Day across the city, attended the Taiwanese Canadian Cultural Festival, Carnaval del Sol, Khatsahlano, the Chinatown Festival, Walk with the Dragon, the Folk N Bhangra Competition, and events with Vancouver’s Filipino, Argentine, Ismaili, Muslim, and 2SLGBTQIA+ communities.

It was also a privilege to celebrate the 20th anniversary of PAL Vancouver, the approval of the renewed Jewish Community Centre, and the unveiling of a bold vision for a new Vancouver Cultural Precinct.

I joined residents and businesses on walking tours in South Granville and Strathcona, visited Megaphone vendor Eric on Commercial Drive, and welcomed new neighbourhood businesses such as 88 Supermarket in Killarney.

Listening at the Doorsteps and in the Chamber

Throughout July, I spent many evenings and weekends canvassing in Langara, Killarney, Marpole, and other neighbourhoods.

Residents spoke about taxes, traffic, parking, parks, housing, public safety, neighbourhood planning, and the reliable services they expect from City Hall. These conversations are invaluable. They keep my work grounded and frequently lead to direct assistance for residents dealing with City issues.

Inside the Council chamber, we worked through long public hearings and difficult decisions. I supported cancelling the proposed Villages Plan because I believe Vancouver can accommodate growth while respecting neighbourhood character, listening carefully to residents, and ensuring infrastructure keeps pace.

As July came to a close, I felt enormous pride in what Vancouver had accomplished. We welcomed the world, invested in our future, celebrated our communities, and continued the steady work of listening and delivering.

Thank you to everyone who shared in this remarkable month and to the many residents who continue to welcome me into their neighbourhoods and conversations.