This is Vancouver

Justin McElroy, a CBC civic affairs reporter specializing in Vancouver's urban issues, dives into the recent data showing declines in crime, rental costs, and toxic drug deaths. He reveals specific statistics highlighting these trends while addressing the unsung caveats like rising homelessness and persistent affordability challenges. The conversation also explores the political implications of these changes and contrasts the data with the reality many residents experience daily, making for a nuanced look at the city's transformation.

Tamir Israel, Director of the Privacy, Surveillance and Technology Program at the Canadian Civil Liberties Association, dives into the heated debate over Surrey police gaining 24/7 access to traffic cameras. He highlights the potential for abuse in centralized surveillance and the erosion of public trust if cameras are repurposed. Tamir cautions against deploying facial recognition due to significant error rates and inherent racial biases. His insights emphasize the need for strict oversight and alternative solutions to enhance safety without compromising privacy.

In this discussion, Peter Waldkirch, a pro-housing advocate and Director of Abundant Housing Vancouver, joins Michael Geller, a former property developer and city planner, to unpack the startling 20-year low in Metro Vancouver home sales in 2025. They dissect the reasons behind buyers' hesitation, like economic uncertainty and changing market psychology. Geller emphasizes the need for family-sized units while Waldkirch calls for systemic planning reforms to alleviate the housing shortage. Both agree on the importance of pre-zoning to expedite housing approvals.

2025 ended in Metro Vancouver politics with mayors pointing fingers at the province and federal government on housing and transit issues, while battling governance issues of their own. The CBC’s Justin McElroy and the Globe and Mail’s Frances Bula join Stephen Quinn to talk the year that was in local politics, and what to expect in 2026. 

Christmas is days away, and many people are still scrambling to finish their shopping — with storms adding to the stress. The CBC's Rachel Adams shares last-minute gift ideas you can find in the Lower Mainland. 

Severe storms are flooding farms, roads, and homes across the Fraser Valley - and not for the first time. We hear from Sumas Prairie residents who lived through the 2021 disaster and are dealing with rising water now. We also ask what governments are doing to reduce future risks. 

Virtually everyone in Metro Vancouver’s large Filipino community wants a cultural centre. The CBC’s Justin McElroy and Johna Baylon joins Stephen Quinn to talk about why the approval of one is proving so contentious, and the politics involved in cultural centres across the region. 

The Broadway Subway Project aims to fix a busy transit corridor - but efforts to build it have created new challenges. Since 2020, businesses and residents have faced noise and disruptions. Now some fear an upcoming roadway closure could make things worse. We hear from people in the community about what daily life is like and what could happen next. 

Aaron Chapman, a historian and author, shares his personal connection to Hastings Racecourse and its cultural significance in Vancouver. He reflects on cherished family memories and the community's loss as racing fades. Chantal Archambault, communications director at the Vancouver Humane Society, discusses alarming animal welfare issues and reveals findings from their report on horse safety and retirement. Together, they explore the impact of funding changes and the urgent need for transparent plans to support both horses and workers in this transition.

In this discussion, Justin McElroy, a CBC municipal affairs reporter, dives into Vancouver's crowded 2026 mayoral race. He highlights the risks of left-wing vote splitting with multiple candidates like Amanda Burroughs, who emphasizes community support in her campaign. McElroy also assesses challenges newcomers face in elections and discusses modern campaign strategies. Additionally, he touches on Ken Sim's re-election prospects and key City Hall votes to watch, offering a lively analysis of the shifting political landscape in Vancouver.