Park Board Meeting

Summary

• Tree Inspection Policy: Board adopted a new policy replacing the 1993 version, expanding coverage to all city-owned trees including civic, laneway, and inaccessible trees. Policy introduces risk-based inspection cycles (every 10 years for low-risk trees, as few as five business days response for extreme-risk trees) using ISA and TRAC assessment methods. Eight members of the public spoke, most in opposition, raising concerns about weakened inspection standards, inappropriate use of TRAC in forested areas, outsourcing risks, and potential harm to Stanley Park's tree canopy. Carried 5–1.
• Honouring Charlie Cuzzetto: Motion directing staff to report back on options to commemorate longtime parks employee and soccer/futsal volunteer Charlie Cuzzetto at Beaconsfield Park, potentially including naming recognition, passed unanimously. Cuzzetto's brother Joe and family were present; rules were suspended to allow Joe to address the board.
• Beach parking fee motions: Two motions, one calling for an urgent review of parking fees at Jericho, Locarno, and Spanish Banks, and one specifically to reduce Spanish Banks parking fees, were both ruled out of order. The chair ruled that commissioners who voted against the November 2025 fees-and-charges decision cannot move to reconsider it; only those who voted in favour may bring a reconsideration motion. A challenge to the chair's ruling on the first motion was defeated 3–3. Significant procedural dispute followed, with temporary transfer of the chair.
• Stanley Park bus route update (GM report): TransLink planning a new seasonal bus route connecting Waterfront Station to Stanley Park via Stanley Park Drive, targeting 2027 launch. Public engagement opens May 11 with an online survey and a May 23 pop-up event.
• Park trails accessibility pilot (GM report): Accessibility audits underway at Stanley Park, Queen Elizabeth Park, John Hendry Park, and New Brighton Park in partnership with Access Now; interactive accessibility maps to be integrated into a global digital platform ahead of summer.
• Notice of motion: Commissioner Jensen gave notice of a future motion recognizing Jim Clive and Howard Kelsey for contributions to sport and community at Kitsilano Beach Park.