The Vancouver City Council has recently taken significant steps to support local businesses, address public safety, and denounce federal immigration enforcement practices.
Support for Fourth Plain Corridor Businesses
In February 2026, the City Council approved a $300,000 grant program aimed at assisting small businesses in the Fourth Plain corridor that have experienced substantial financial hardships. This area, known for its diverse, immigrant-owned businesses, has faced economic challenges due to various factors, including federal immigration policies. The grants, up to $10,000 per business, are intended to cover immediate needs such as payroll, rent, and utilities, providing much-needed relief to the affected establishments. Source
Scaled-Back Police Levy Proposal
In August 2025, the City Council unanimously approved a plan to present a property tax levy to voters, aiming to fund up to 13 full-time Vancouver Police Department officers, along with necessary vehicles and equipment. This proposal is a scaled-down version of a previous levy that sought to add 80 new officers but was rejected by voters in 2024. The new levy proposes a $0.15 per $1,000 property tax increase, translating to a $75 annual increase for a home assessed at $500,000, and is designed to address the growing demand for police services in the rapidly expanding city. Source
Denouncement of Federal Immigration Enforcement Practices
In January 2026, the City Council issued a formal declaration condemning the actions of federal immigration enforcement agencies operating within and around Vancouver. The declaration highlighted the harm and destabilization caused by these actions, including widespread fear among residents, erosion of trust in law enforcement, and negative economic impacts on local businesses. The Council reaffirmed its commitment to providing a safe and welcoming community for all residents, regardless of immigration status. Source
These recent actions by the Vancouver City Council reflect a concerted effort to address pressing community issues and support the well-being of its residents.