NEWS DETAILS

On Nov. 4, voters headed to the polls to decide a range of local issues and elect representatives to various offices. The City had two issues on the ballot: Proposition 5, the Police Services Levy, and Charter Amendment No. 13, creating voting districts. I am grateful for the thoughtful dialogue and engagement on both issues in the time leading up to the election. 

By saying yes to Proposition 5, you are directly investing in our ability to hire additional officers and the related equipment, vehicles, and staffing support necessary to meet modern policing standards, as well as covering additional prosecution and criminal justice costs. We understand the trust this investment represents and are committed to delivering on the plan as promised. 

The Police Community Advisory Committee will continue to be a key partner in ensuring transparency and advising me as we implement the levy and pursue other public safety funding sources, which will enable us to staff our police department to meet the needs of our growing community. 

Charter Amendment No. 13 was created as part of the 2024 Charter Review process, during which the Charter Review Committee recommended that elections be held by district. This amendment did not pass, meaning that the City Council will retain its current structure and elect all its members city-wide. The failure of the amendment does not change the City Council’s commitment to representing the perspectives of the entire Vancouver community and making decisions that serve the city as a whole.  

Both Proposition 5 and Charter Amendment 13 came out of community-led efforts and reflect the ideas and priorities shared by Vancouver residents. Your participation helps guide the direction of our city. We’re committed to carrying out the will of the voters and continuing to work with the community on the issues you’ve told us matter most.