Healthy Waters Plan Strategic Framework

Summary

• Approves the Strategic Framework of Guiding Principles, Goal Areas, and Objectives to guide development of Vancouver's comprehensive sewage and rainwater management plan (the "Healthy Waters Plan").
• Responds to a 2020 Council direction; the plan addresses combined sewer overflows (CSOs), polluted urban runoff, aging infrastructure, climate change risk, and infrastructure needs for a growing population.
• The City faces significant financial pressure: Metro Vancouver capital costs projected to rise 85% and City capital costs 30% over 2022-2026, partly driven by the $9.9 billion Iona Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrade.
• Phase 1 (current state assessment and strategic framework) now complete; Phase 2 will evaluate investment pathways and set performance measures, with a 2024 report back to Council.
• Engagement included Musqueam Indian Band, Tsleil-Waututh Nation, Metro Vancouver, BC Ministry of Environment, Vancouver Coastal Health, and community and environmental groups.

Vote

Documents

• Report – Update on the Development of a Sewage and Rainwater Management Plan for Vancouver (the “Healthy Waters Plan”)
• Staff Presentation