Endorsing Transit for Low-Income Youth

Summary

• Council endorsed the Mayors' Council position urging the province to expand transit fare discounts to all low-income residents, including youth, through an improved BC Bus Pass program.
• Noted that transit access is critical for low-income youth to reach school, health care, shelter, and services, and that monthly pass costs are a significant burden on struggling families.
• Referenced a city-led Reduced Fare Transit Pilot (Oct 2021–Mar 2022) in which free passes improved teens' access to school, mental health supports, and community activities.
• Directed the Mayor to write to five provincial ministers and the Select Standing Committee on Children and Youth urging them to secure funding and develop a plan.
• Five public speakers appeared; four in support, one with general comments.

Vote

Documents

• Motion – Endorsing the Transit for Teens Campaign to Extend BC’s Get on Board Program up to Age 18