Vancouver Considers Dissolving Park Board to Save $70 Million Over Decade

A new report suggests eliminating the city's elected park board could streamline governance, save millions annually, and permanently protect more parkland.

• The City of Vancouver's report estimates $7 million in annual savings by dissolving the park board and integrating its responsibilities into city council operations.
• Mayor Ken Sim argues the move would cut inefficiencies, reduce delays in infrastructure projects, and ensure 36 hectares of temporary parkland are reclassified as permanent.
• Critics, including some park board commissioners, question the financial estimates and warn of potential risks to park oversight and community representation.
• The transition, requiring provincial approval, faces uncertainty as Premier David Eby has indicated it is not a priority before the next municipal election in 2026.
• Concerns about employee roles, public input, and the workload for city councillors have been raised, with recommendations for mitigation measures such as a dedicated community relations office.

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