Ken Sim’s ABC Vancouver platform pledges 2027 property-tax freeze and end to residential parking permit fees

ABC Vancouver, led by Mayor Ken Sim, has released a platform for the Oct. 17, 2026 civic election that includes a promised zero-per-cent property-tax increase in 2027 and an end to residential parking permit fees. The platform also proposes ending paid parking at Jericho Beach, Spanish Banks Beach and all community centres, as well as a citywide parking app, faster permits and lower administrative costs.

The party’s combined City Council, Park Board and School Board platform calls for weekly VANSTAT check-ins with department heads and limiting taxpayer spending to core municipal responsibilities. Its public-safety proposals include banning hard-drug use in public spaces, simplifying police seizure of those drugs, pursuing at least 100 involuntary-care beds in Vancouver, and requiring provincial drug-consumption sites to be away from public schools and parks. ABC also proposes closer oversight of non-profits and good-neighbour agreements for public housing properties affected by street disorder.

Its Restoring Vancouver infrastructure plan includes $400 million for community-centre improvements, which ABC says is already approved in the City’s 2027-2030 capital plan. Dunbar, Kerrisdale, Hastings, Roundhouse and Kensington are identified for rebuilding or upgrades, with another five centres proposed for the following capital plan. The party also promises the River District Community Centre and $104 million for roads and sidewalks.

ABC proposes aquatic centres in Sunset and Marpole, including a new 50-metre lap pool, plus a covered year-round public pickleball facility and expanded recreation and youth programs. It also pledges to double dog parks, expand off-leash areas, improve park maintenance, permanently repair the Stanley Park Train, and prioritize the return of Bright Nights and the Halloween train. At Kitsilano Pool, it proposes ending the pandemic-era booking-slot system.

The party says the City Council-approved Joe Fortes Learn-to-Swim program would make the first three lesson levels free for children aged three to 12 and increase lesson capacity. Park Board and School Board candidates would work to introduce swimming instruction during school hours as part of physical education. Education commitments also include retaining the School Liaison Officer Program, placing teaching assistants in every classroom, adding specialized supports, and directing school taxes collected in Vancouver to Vancouver schools.

ABC says the provincial government is expected to collect about $659 million in Vancouver school taxes in 2026, while the Vancouver School Board received about $598 million in provincial grants for its 2025-26 budget. The party characterizes the difference as a roughly $60 million shortfall. It also proposes attracting technology companies and jobs, advancing the Granville Street pedestrian zone over the long term, and creating a new funding model for major public events. A second platform section, Raising Vancouver, is planned for Sept. 28.