Metro Vancouver asks province to weigh in on governance review

The Metro Vancouver Regional District (MVRD) has asked the provincial government to weigh in on its internal governance review.

Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon says the province will get involved, as long as it doesn’t have to pay for it.

“The public has made it clear the situation at Metro Vancouver cannot go on as is,” Kahlon posted on X Friday.

“Metro Van has requested the province participate in its review. If pay and stipends are included, we will ensure the province is participating in a Metro Van-funded review to increase transparency.”

Metro Vancouver confirmed at the end of 2024 that a review of its spending was being done. This came after months of heavy scrutiny, with questions surrounding international trips, high salaries, and oversight repeatedly coming up since April last year. The beleaguered municipal district has also faced criticism over its handling of the North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant, with the estimated cost of that project ballooning to $3.86 billion last year — five times over its original budget.

Last week, Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim said he would no longer participate in MVRD meetings as controversy continues over issues of spending and transparency.

It is unclear when the results of the review will be made public.

With files from Sonia Aslam and Charlie Carey.