Vancouver City Council passed the 2012 City Operating Budget tonight at a Special Council Meeting, investing in affordable housing, parks and recreation services, and libraries, as part of a forward-looking fiscal plan for the coming year.

“Even in the midst of a challenging economic climate and a $52 million budget gap, we’ve delivered a budget that is balanced, progressive, and pragmatic,” said Mayor Gregor Robertson. “This budget fully protects and supports programs that impact Vancouver’s most vulnerable, including priority investments for homelessness and affordable housing, child care and seniors. We’re protecting all funding and support for arts and culture programming, continuing our support for Vancouver’s Greenest City goals, and increasing support for Vancouver’s public libraries and parks and recreation services.”

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After six years of planning and consultations, City Council approved the new Hastings Park/ PNE Master Plan, which will add 50 additional acres of new park space in addition to preserving the popular 17-day PNE fair.

“This new Hastings Park/ PNE Master Plan is long-overdue and will provide much more green space and outdoor activity, both for local neighbours and the city as a whole,” said Mayor Gregor Robertson. “With the plan in place, we can now move ahead with immediate upgrades and public benefits for the community. Hastings Park is one of the most beloved parks in Vancouver and by almost tripling the green space, we’re enhancing it for future generations.”

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