Metro Vancouver board looks at cutting costs

Board members for the Metro Vancouver Regional District are looking at where it can cut costs amid a burgeoning financial crisis within the region.

Burnaby Mayor Mike Hurley, who serves as Board Chair says the board has been working hard to keep rates as affordable as possible during a time of high inflation and market instability.

“At the same time, we must ensure our infrastructure and services the needs of a rapidly growing population,” said Hurley.

Up for deliberation were cuts in areas like zero waste programs, housing development funding, and emissions regulation — but so far, not board members’ salaries.

Some pay-cheques are eye popping, with certain members making upwards of $400,000 or $500,000 a year — more than the B.C. premier or the prime minister.

Vancouver city councillor Lisa Dominato says she expects salaries will be looked at in a separate governance review as she defended the board’s work and transparency.

“There’s been a lot of public scrutiny on Metro Vancouver, what it does, its role, responsibilities, expenditures and spending. And what’s important for the organization right now, then, is to be taking that second sober look,” Dominato told 1130 NewsRadio.

The district’s come under criticism for projects like the North Shore Wastewater treatment plant, where costs skyrocketed by billions and forced bumps to resdients’ utility bills.

She says the board voted against cutting E-Comm 911 services, funding for regional parks, and other “priorities.”

“We have to prioritize our water services, our sewer services. Those are integral. We have to prioritize monitoring air quality and climate those continue to be a priority. Our regional parks are critical as well. We saw a huge uptick in those parks during COVID. Having green space is critically important to the region. And the housing portfolio, which delivers affordable housing for families and seniors across the region.”

Premier David Eby said Wednesday that he has confidence in the governance review but says “it’s disappointing to be disappointed in Metro Vancouver again.”

Board members and Chair Hurley were likely paid the standard rate of $547 each for attending the meeting Thursday morning, but it ended inconclusively, meaning another will be required.