A report finds Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim and ABC councillors breached rules by privately planning council votes, sparking concerns over transparency.
Integrity Commissioner’s Findings
Vancouver’s integrity commissioner has concluded that Mayor Ken Sim and seven ABC Vancouver councillors violated city rules by privately discussing council matters. The ruling, issued by commissioner Lisa Southern on August 22, stems from a complaint filed last summer by Green Coun. Pete Fry.
Details of the Violation
Southern’s investigation determined that Sim, along with councillors Sarah Kirby-Yung, Lisa Dominato, Lenny Zhou, Brian Montague, Mike Klassen, Peter Meiszner and Rebecca Bligh, breached the Vancouver Charter. The group privately planned votes and amendments on two key issues: funding for a new turf field at Moberly Park and a climate justice charter, which was later rejected.
Rules on Municipal Transparency
While political caucuses are allowed in British Columbia, city rules prohibit councillors from meeting privately in ways that materially advance council business. Southern emphasized that such discussions must take place in open meetings, allowing the public to witness decision-making. She warned that private planning undermines trust in local democracy.
Impact on Public Trust
The report notes that when elected officials move policy forward in private, the public loses opportunities for participation and oversight. “They are depriving the public of participation in the policy development and decision-making processes that serve to build public trust and confidence in local government,” Southern wrote.
Responses from Councillors
Coun. Pete Fry, who initiated the complaint, said the findings highlight the need for greater openness at city hall. “It’s quite clear that there have been decisions made behind closed doors without the oversight of the public, other councillors, or staff,” he said.
Mayor Ken Sim pushed back, calling the matter “politicized” and dismissing the complaint as technical. “Of course we talk about politics and items affecting our city — we’re a team,” Sim said, adding that voters gave ABC Vancouver a strong mandate to lead.
Next Steps
The integrity commissioner’s report does not carry penalties but reinforces that councillors must respect the Vancouver Charter’s transparency requirements. The ruling is expected to renew debate over the balance between political teamwork and the need for open governance at city hall.
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