Referendum must be held to determine whether Vancouverites want elected park board

The provincial government introduced legislation on October 9, 2025, allowing Vancouver city council to hold a referendum on Mayor Ken Sim's proposal to abolish the elected park board. This move follows a December 2023 resolution from the ABC Vancouver-led council requesting the province to dissolve the board and transfer its powers to the council. Minister Christine Boyle stated that the legislation mandates an assent vote, requiring more than 50% of voters' support for dissolution. Sim anticipates significant taxpayer savings, estimating a minimum of $70 million over the next decade from streamlined services. Park commissioner Laura Christensen welcomed the referendum requirement, asserting that the decision should belong to Vancouver voters.

The cost of a standalone referendum raises concerns, as a recent byelection cost the city $1. 6 million. Sim's office has not yet clarified his position on supporting a referendum. If held, the referendum could coincide with the municipal elections scheduled for October 2026.