Vancouver rundown for Friday, May 31, 2024. The BC NDP would have an easy path to victory
if an election were held today. At Angus Reed Institute, Poll finds the David E. B. New Democrats
have 41% voter support. That is well ahead of the 30% for the BC Conservatives and 16%
for BC United. The Greens have 11%. The cost of living remains the number one issue followed
by health care and then housing affordability. Premier E. B.'s voter approval rating is strong
at 45%. More than double that of party leaders John Rustad and Kevin Falcon were tied at 22%.
Other news, Mayor Ken Sim is telling City of Vancouver staff to find a way to limit property
tax increases to 5.5%. That may be a challenge as staff say a 7% figure is more realistic,
given increases in labor costs, supply chain costs, and infrastructure improvements.
City Council is expected to vote on a proposal by December. Vancouver's iconic English Bay
will officially remain booze-free this summer. It failed to make the list of beaches where alcohol
will be allowed. Blame a large number of calls complaining about loud drunks at English Bay.
Drinking will, however, be allowed at Jericho, Spanish Banks, La Carnault, Second Beach, Kits Beach,
Third Beach, Crab Beach, and some spots along the Fraser River. A man from Surrey is pleading guilty
to ripping off students from India with fake college acceptance letters. Rejesh Mishra's
lawyer has confirmed to City News that please are for three of five charges under the Immigration
and Refugee Protection Act. He's been sentenced to three years in prison in addition to 12 months
already served. A mix of sun and clouds within land highs to 19 degrees Friday afternoon,
clouds and rain for both Saturday and Sunday. For all the details on these Vancouver Area
stories along with the links, go to vancouverrundown.substack.com.