Vancouver City Council approves zero-means-zero budget

Vancouver's city council approved the "zero-means-zero" budget on Tuesday, with all seven ABC councillors supporting it. The budget holds property tax rates steady for 2026 while increasing utility fees by an average of more than four percent. Mayor Ken Sim claims the plan will reduce the financial burden on taxpayers. Critics, including union representatives, warn that the budget could lead to significant layoffs, estimating around 400 full-time jobs may be eliminated across various city departments. This decision highlights the ongoing conflict between the ABC majority and opposing councillors regarding fiscal priorities.

The city has faced budgetary challenges in recent years, prompting a push for more stringent financial measures. Local officials must now navigate the fallout from potential job cuts and the impact on city services. The council's approval of this budget marks a significant shift in Vancouver's fiscal policy.