Mayor Linda Buchanan is celebrating the second anniversary of safe and responsible consumption of alcohol in select City parks and public spaces. In May 2020 Mayor Buchanan brought forward a motion directing City staff to study the feasibility of a bylaw change that would allow people to use parks in a new way.
People needed outdoor spaces to socialize safely during the COVID-19 pandemic. On June 22, 2020 the City of North Vancouver made history by becoming the first jurisdiction in Canada outside of Quebec to allow the safe and legal consumption of alcohol in select parks and public spaces.
“Over the course of the pandemic we’ve all deepened our appreciation for gathering with friends and neighbours,” said Mayor Linda Buchanan. “Over 80 per cent of City residents live in multi-family buildings, making our parks and plazas an extensions of their own backyards. This bylaw change has increased the use of our parks significantly as we’ve seen celebrations such as birthdays, anniversaries, engagements, and more. It’s great to see our parks so vibrant and lively.”
The initial pilot project ran from June 22 to October 15, 2020, and received overwhelming support from both residents and businesses, CNV said in a press release. At the October 26, 2020 Council meeting, Mayor and Council voted unanimously to make alcohol consumption in certain City locations permanent. Alcohol may be consumed in designated areas with signage from noon to dusk, seven days a week.
“When I brought this motion forward in 2020 I was looking to support the needs of people as well as create new economic opportunities for restaurants and breweries at the height of COVID-related closures and restrictions,” added Mayor Buchanan. “I’m focused on advancing policies that will put people across the community first, while contributing to a resilient and prosperous local economy. Together we can create a better City for all.”
