Mayor welcomes choice by province of 10 non-profits to operate supportive housing

Mayor Sam Sullivan welcomed news that the provincial government has selected 10 non-profit organizations to operate the single room occupancy (SRO) hotels purchased this year by the Province, and two city-owned sites.

Ten non-profit groups were selected through an Expressions of Interest proposal call issued in August. In addition to the 10 hotels purchased by the Province this year, the proposal call also included the Drake Hotel purchased by the City of Vancouver, and a new, supportive housing development for the city-owned site at 337 West Pender St. The organizations selected for these two Vancouver-owned sites will need to receive city council approval.

“The provision of supportive housing for low-income singles is one of the ways that we’re going to reach our Project Civil City goal of reducing homelessness by at least 50 per cent by 2010,” said Vancouver Mayor Sam Sullivan. “These respected community service providers will address a diverse range of housing needs. I’d like to thank Minister Rich Coleman for his leadership on this initiative.”

Mayor & Councillor Capri Welcome Provincial Housing Announcement

Mayor & Councillor Capri Welcome Provincial Housing Announcement

New units will help achieve Project Civil City objectives

Mayor Sam Sullivan and Councillor Kim Capri today welcomed a significant social housing announcement by Premier Gordon Campbell and Housing Minister Rich Coleman. Vancouver’s Civil City Commissioner Geoff Plant also attended the announcement at Vancouver’s Lookout Emergency Aid Shelter.

“On behalf of the City of Vancouver, I want to thank Premier Campbell, Minister Coleman and the entire provincial government for their commitment to social and supportive housing,” said Mayor Sullivan. “This announcement will help us achieve the Project Civil City objectives we have identified. Working with all levels of government, we can deliver compassionate solutions to our social challenges.”

Today, the provincial government announced new and expanded measures to help break the cycle of homelessness with an added $41 million.

Mayor & Councillors Support Brian Foley Recommendations

Mayor Sam Sullivan and Councillor Elizabeth Ball today confirmed their support for the recommendations made by Brian Foley to end Vancouver’s CUPE strike. The following is a statement from Mayor Sullivan:

First I want to recognize the work of Brian Foley and the extensive report he completed. He is a man of great integrity with a proven track record of results in various labour disputes.

I would also like to thank the citizens of Vancouver for their ongoing civility and patience during this strike. The fact the City has looked as good as it has over the last three months is a credit to our citizens and small business owners who have demonstrated real pride in their City.

Mayor’s Communiqué: Vancouver Recognized for “Green” Initiatives

In this edition…

Lynn and I hope you are looking forward to Thanksgiving weekend with friends and family. We both want to thank you for all the support you have given us over the years. It does not go unnoticed. In this edition of the newsletter, I have focused the environment. As you know, ensuring the City of Vancouver does its share to protect the environment for future generations is one of the five goals we have established for our government.

Also, further to my commitment to keep you posted on developments related to the CUPE strike, please find a statement my office released earlier today – along with a news release from the City of Vancouver.

Innovative Treatment Programs Proven to Reduce Crime, Homelessness & Public Disorder

Federal Government can support Vancouver priorities with anti-drug strategy: Sullivan

Mayor Sam Sullivan and Councillor Kim Capri today welcomed a 34-page City of Vancouver report on innovative treatment for people with drug addiction. Mayor Sullivan also confirmed his intention to invite the federal government to provide funding from its pending anti-drug strategy to support Vancouver priorities.

“Delivering compassionate solutions to our social challenges is one of the five goals we have established for our government and is the key reason we introduced Project Civil City,” said Mayor Sullivan. “I support substitution treatment for those suffering from addiction because it rejects the use of needles and illegal drugs and offers real hope of reducing homelessness, crime and public disorder. It can be the pathway to long term abstinence.”

Mayor’s Film Task Force Report Released

“Greener” productions and improved communication with residents & industry recommended

Mayor Sam Sullivan today released a special Task Force Report on ways the City of Vancouver can improve management of the city’s film industry. The task force was Chaired by Shawn Williamson, CEO of Brightlight Pictures and supported by Councillor Elizabeth Ball.

“Ensuring Vancouver’s economic success is one of the five goals we have established for our government,” said Mayor Sullivan. “The film industry contributes significantly to our economic well-being. I want to thank Shawn, Councillor Ball, our Filming and Special Events Office and the Task Force members for their important contribution.”