Thursday’s press conference will detail proposed governance structure if the Vancouver park board is eliminated.
Vancouver mayor Ken Sim announced on Wednesday afternoon that a press conference will be held at 8 a.m. Thursday to outline the city’s proposed takeover of the Vancouver park board.
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Sim revealed almost a year ago that he wanted the elected park board dissolved and all its assets placed under city control.
In the lead up to last month’s provincial election, David Eby — who remains premier — said he would agree to the takeover, while B.C. Conservative leader John Rustad said that he wanted the decision made by referendum.
The majority of the current park board members are opposed to its elimination and have been fighting the proposal.
Wednesday’s press release stated that Thursday’s event would be a “media technical briefing and press conference on proposed parks and recreation transition.”
“The update includes key progress made in as it relates to proposed governance structure, recommendations for conversion of temporary parks to permanent parks, and opportunities for enhanced organizational integration,” the statement read.
Squamish Nation council chair Khelsilem and Musqueam Indian Band Chief Wayne Sparrow will be attending. Both are in favour of the plan.
Under its current structure, the park board makes decisions around spending, but ultimately the money comes from the city — or from park board imposed user fees.
In the report, Singh states the city will save around $7 million a year by dismantling the park board.