Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim Unveils Urgent Budget, $50M More for Police

UPDATE: Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim has just announced a significant budget proposal that includes an additional $50 million for police while implementing a property tax freeze. This budget marks his final proposal ahead of the October 2024 elections, positioning public safety and affordability as key priorities.

In a press briefing today, Sim emphasized the urgency of his budget, which modestly increases overall expenditures from $2.34 billion to $2.39 billion for the next fiscal year. He stated, “I’m proud of this one,” highlighting the need for enhanced funding to the Vancouver Police Department (VPD) despite planned cuts to arts, culture, and community services.

Sim is framing this budget as a clear choice for voters, contrasting his administration’s focus on public safety with the opposition’s stance, which he claims would lead to property tax increases of six to seven percent. “The distinction is pretty clear,” he asserted, suggesting this budget aligns with public sentiment for safety and affordability.

The proposal will proceed through the city council in two stages: an initial vote this month for general direction and a detailed line-item approval expected in the first quarter of 2026. Sim reassured residents that while some elements are flexible, his commitment to public safety remains unwavering.

While five of the city’s departments will see budget increases, departments such as arts and sustainability will face cuts of up to 15 percent. “We’re focusing on core services… tough choices have to be made,” Sim explained. Concerns have already emerged regarding the optics of increased police funding amid reductions elsewhere, with Vancouver Police Board member Lorraine Lowe noting potential pushback on these decisions.

Despite concerns, Sim is confident that the investment in public safety is yielding results, citing a 23-year low in violent crime rates across Vancouver. “When you make investments in public safety, you get better public safety,” he stated.

However, the budget’s details remain fluid, with Sim acknowledging that city staff are evaluating cuts that may lead to staffing reductions in the hundreds. He mentioned potential buyouts and early retirement offers as part of these adjustments, although specific impacts on arts and community services have yet to be outlined.

Opposition parties have raised alarms following the budget’s announcement, referencing a recent city survey indicating only 10 percent of respondents would support a property tax freeze that accompanies service cuts. Sim, however, argues that this survey does not capture the broader public sentiment for affordability and essential services.

As the budget proposal moves forward, all eyes will be on the city council’s response and the potential impact on Vancouver residents. With public safety, affordability, and a property tax freeze at stake, the upcoming discussions promise to be contentious and crucial for the city’s future.

Stay tuned for further developments as this unfolding budget debate continues to shape Vancouver’s landscape.