Join us for an informal conversation reflecting on Gregor Robertson’s decade as Mayor of Vancouver. This will be followed by Q&A so come prepared with your questions. This event is hosted by Professor David Boyd (School of Public Policy and Global Affairs and the Institute for Resources, Environment and Sustainability) and is part of SPPGA’s Policy in Practice series.
Wednesday, October 3
12:30 pm – 2:00 pm
Liu Institute for Global Issues – Multipurpose Room
Refreshments provided
Bio: In November 2014, Gregor Robertson was re-elected to a third term as Mayor of Vancouver to continue building on the progress achieved in the first six years of office.
Mayor Robertson spearheaded the creation of the city’s first comprehensive Economic Action Strategy, and is committed to growing a sustainable and thriving economy in Vancouver focused on high-growth sectors like digital media, clean technology and renewable energy. Vancouver now leads Canada in economic growth, and is forecast by the Conference Board of Canada to lead Canadian cities in growth through to 2019.
Building on the successful legacy of the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, Mayor Robertson has established Vancouver internationally as the Green Capital — a City where going green is good for business. He has also overseen the creation and implementation of the award-winning Greenest City 2020 Action Plan that aims to make Vancouver an environmental leader in everything from energy efficiency and waste reduction to clean air and local food. The Mayor has also been a consistent advocate for new investment in rapid transit with a subway on Vancouver’s UBC-Broadway corridor, BC’s second-largest employment centre and the busiest bus corridor in North America.
Under Mayor Robertson’s leadership, Vancouver continues to rank as one of the most livable cities in the world, with one of the most competitive environments for attracting new jobs and investment. The City of Vancouver has also been named the Most Innovative Organization in the province by BC Business Magazine for its open data initiative.
He has made affordable housing a top priority, with an aggressive, ten-year plan to provide thousands of affordable housing units for Vancouverites of all ages, while ensuring that existing affordable housing is protected. Since 2009, City policies and partnerships have leveraged 10,000 new units of housing geared to low and middle income households, ranging from new social and supportive housing, to new laneway, secondary suite, and market rental homes.
Prior to entering politics, Gregor co-founded Happy Planet, a socially responsible company that produces organic juices and promotes health and nutrition. He also previously represented Vancouver-Fairview as a Member of the British Columbia Legislative Assembly.
Co-hosted by: School of Public Policy and Global Affairs and the Institute for Resources, Environment and Sustainability.