Opposing the "Zero Means Zero" Budget

Opposing the "Zero Means Zero" Budget Titles: Welcome to My Blog! or Welcome to My World or Welcome to (Blog Name)

Vancouver is a beautiful city – not just because of our oceans and mountains, but because our residents stand up for each other. While I wasn’t born in Vancouver, I fell in love with this community because we invest in shared spaces, look out for our neighbours, and confront big challenges together. 

But right now, budget priorities at City Hall are putting that version of Vancouver at risk.

Although the 2026 “Zero Means Zero” budget claimed to “maintain the services people count on most” while delivering a 0% property tax, behind that headline was a plan that introduced cuts and uncertainty for the arts, parks and recreation, and sustainability initiatives, with limited transparency about the full impacts.

That’s why I spoke before council in opposition to the budget last November. 

As Vancouverites, we count on:

• Arts and culture to reflect and connect our diverse communities

• Community centres and parks to serve as shared backyards and points of connection

• Leadership in sustainability and climate resilience to protect future generations

Cutting or scaling back those areas does not “maintain services” – it quietly reshapes our city and disproportionately impacts residents who rely on city services the most.

Freezing property taxes while we face an affordable housing crisis, a climate crisis, and aging community infrastructure undermines our city’s ability to rise to the challenges that affect all Vancouverites.

During the budget process, hundreds of Vancouverites came forward to speak about what they value in this city and what they are concerned about losing. That level of engagement reflects something important: people care deeply about the future of Vancouver. 

I spoke out against this budget because I believe Vancouver should continue to be a city that plans thoughtfully, shares information transparently, and listens to all voices. A city where community centres are maintained, not neglected.

Where climate leadership is strengthened, not scaled back. 

And where decision-making reflects the values of the people who call this city home. 

Budgets are ultimately about priorities. And if we want a Vancouver where people can access the spaces and services that make life possible, then we need budgets that support that future – not put it at risk.

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