YOUR VOTE COUNTS
Local businesses shape our community. Local votes shape our future.
Business owners and the people who work in Vancouver’s commercial districts have a unique perspective on what’s working across the city and what needs to change.
Whether it’s public safety, transit, permitting, or how the city supports small business, the priorities of the business community deserve a seat at the table as candidates build their platforms.
View helpful tips and ways to vote leading up to and on voting day on October 17th.
MAYORAL CANDIDATES FORUM
On October 6, the Vancouver BIA Partnership hosted a Mayoral Candidates Forum at The Dance Centre, bringing together BIAs, board members, local businesses and property owners to hear directly from five mayoral candidates: Colleen Hardwick (Team), Ken Sim (ABC Vancouver), Pete Fry (Green Party), Rebecca Bligh (Vote Vancouver) and Kareem Allam (Vancouver Liberals).
Moderated by Justin P. Goodrich, the forum provided an opportunity for candidates to share their perspectives on the issues most affecting Vancouver’s business community. Themes and pre-set questions were informed by a citywide business survey conducted in July and August, with discussions focused on public safety, the rising cost of doing business, permitting and navigating City Hall, and long-term business viability and economic resilience.
Candidates also responded to questions from the audience, offering further insight into their priorities and proposed approaches to supporting Vancouver’s commercial districts. View a summary of each candidate’s responses here.
The Vancouver BIA Partnership wishes to thank all participating candidates, moderator Justin Goodrich and everyone who attended and contributed to this important conversation about the future of Vancouver’s business communities. Special thanks also to The Dance Centre and Ono Vancouver Catering for the event hospitality!
We will continue to collaborate and advocate to support local businesses, and conditions that support strong and vibrant retail neighbourhoods.