An Innovative Approach to Governing and Planning for the Urban Future October 15, 2007 THE VANCOUVER AGREEMENT

An urban development initiative of the governments of Canada, British Columbia and Vancouver First focus – Vancouver’s inner city Promotes innovative and creative partnerships THE VANCOUVER AGREEMENT

Public disorder, including extensive drug dealing and use, in the city’s historic heart A public health crisis caused by epidemic HIV rates and drug overdose deaths Economic and business decline Issues addressed separately with little coordination Context

The Community

Building relationships and strengthening people-based policies Developing strategies to achieve common goals with the community and business Working to revitalize the inner city through partnerships and collaboration Working Together

Revitalization without displacing the area’s people or problems to other neighbourhoods Objective for the Downtown Eastside

Economic Development/ Employment Health Safety GOALS Increase economic development and employment opportunities Increase public safety Improve health of DTES residents Housing Integrated Strategic Plan

Health and Safety Improvements Improved Economic Environment Better Housing Alternatives New Partnerships Links to Other Key Initiatives Creative Projects and Initiatives

Building Community Cohesion

Diverse groups, structures, and mandates Balancing needs Building trust amongst partners Resources Challenges and Opportunities

UN cited first phase of VA as an example of best practice for cities in Canada and abroad Used as a successful model for projects in Bangkok, Thailand, and Santiago, Chile Significant resourcing and policy challenges as VA entered its second five- year phase with changes in elected governments. Transferability

Courage and a willingness to change Creating the environment to trust Cooperation instead of competition Time, commitment and innovation Work in progress Lessons Learned