Calling city council’s strategic plan “visionary,” Richmond Mayor Malcolm Brodie delivered his annual address to a business audience on Wednesday.
At the luncheon at the Pacific Gateway Hotel, Brodie zeroed in on the eight key areas of council’s four-year strategy – this plan was approved by council in June.
Brodie told the chamber audience the strategic plan provides a “visionary agenda” for the city’s direction.
“It reflects council’s desire to provide proactive and forward-thinking leadership that recognizes our unique identity and rich history,” Brodie said at the luncheon.
The @richmondchamber is honored to host Mayor @malcolmbrodie at @PacGatewayHotel for his annual address to the #richmondbc business community. pic.twitter.com/QbHdMh5IPE
— Matt Pitcairn (@MPitcairn) February 26, 2020
Highlighted in Brodie’s speech were the increased number of police and fire fighters, the elimination of cash payments at city hall, the up-coming plastics ban and the painting of the rainbow crosswalk on Minoru Boulevard.
He called the rainbow crosswalk a “lasting reminder that Richmond is a city of inclusion, respect and support.”
Brodie also spoke about the Cultural Harmony Plan approved by council, saying the diversity of the population of the city is what makes it “unique.”
“Differences in cultural heritage sometimes create tensions, although such situations are rare and do not reflect who we are as a community,” Brodie said.
As for what is anticipated in 2020, Brodie pointed to the advent of ride-hailing, a resolution to the George Massey crossing, the expectation of a new acute care tower for Richmond Hospital, more development, for example, at Lansdowne Centre and the opening of a new community policy office at Granville Avenue and Gilbert Road.
Brodie said the city is anticipating more growth in the future, with $980 million in construction projects currently underway and a new stop along the Canada Line coming soon.
