Dear Friend,

Hats off to Jane and her amazing team at West 4^th BIA who delivered an epic event last weekend. Nice to see so many familiar faces at Khatsahlano! I got to stop and talk to so many of you and had the privilege of meeting  local famed singer songwriter, Dan Mangan. At the Burrard Stage he led the crowd in a beautiful a cappella round of Oh Canada and then also played one of his new songs “Soapbox” from his new album. It was absolutely beautiful. I’ve been a fan since his early days when my middle son introduced me to his music, and it was a highlight for to meet him. The day was topped off by an amazing meal from Maenam (best mango salad on the planet) then some dancing down at the MacDonald stage, and what could be better way to spend a Saturday night?

This week Premier Eby and I announced an increase to the IDMTC - the interactive digital media tax credit. As you might recall, I used to lead video game studios and I’m glad to see this industry continue to grow. I worked in the industry in the era when jurisdictions first started using tax credits to attract high paying mobile sectors into their economy. Policy folks had figured out that economies with a strong creative tech sector saw more start ups in adjacent industries and watched their GDPs tick upwards. Back in the pre-2006-2009 era I watched thousands of people from the BC ecosystem move to Quebec when Quebec brought in their tax credit. BC first brought in an IDMTC in 2009, but nowhere near the other jurisdictions. In Budget 2025 we moved the IDMTC from 17.5% to 25%. It still is not as high as Quebec, Ontario, NS, Manitoba and others who range from 37% to 50%, but we think with all we have to offer it is competitive. With hundreds of BC studios and some foreign studios employing BC’ers, we will continue to invest in job growth.

On that note, the job numbers that came out this morning were promising. We saw our unemployment rate in BC move in a positive direction this month from 6.4% last month to 5.6%, the third lowest in the country.  Women's employment increased by 6,700 this month. So far this year, B.C. has had the highest increase in women's full-time employment among provinces at 28,700. And B.C. continues to lead the country with an average hourly wage of $37.62, the second highest among provinces.

This is not to say the threat to our economy from the tariff war is not real. It certainly is. We’ve seen GDP dropping, and many investment decisions held due to trade uncertainty. The steel and aluminum sectors are deeply impacted, and BC exports a lot of aluminum to the US. The US President continues his barrage of threatened tariff increases, and he added a new a tariff on copper. Copper is a huge export for us, but mostly to Asia. As these threats and tariff impositions continue, we must hold strong and continue negotiations, all while focussing on strengthening our own economy. Read the Premiers statement on this here.

In personal news, I have found a new rental and am moving back into Kitsilano from Yaletown. Delighted to be back in the neighborhood. I’m near Kits beach and you might see me launching my solstice kayak in a quest to find the whales!

This weekend, I’ll be attending the Carnaval Del Sol celebration over in Jonathan Rogers Park. It sounds like it’s going to be a great time celebrating Latin culture. What’s summer in Vancouver without outdoor dancing to great live music?

As a reminder, when the temperature rises, make sure you’re taking precautions against the heat. Heat stroke can sneak up on you, especially for elders, young kids and our furry pets. Stay hydrated and make sure you’re taking breaks from the sun.

Take care of each other and enjoy our beautiful province,

Brenda

At Khatsahlano – the photo doesn’t do the crowd justice.

Increased Tax Credit for Interactive Digital Media

Video game and virtual reality (VR) developers will soon benefit from an increased tax credit for the interactive digital media industry in B.C.

To provide certainty for the industry, the Province has made the tax credit permanent and is increasing it from 17.5% to 25% beginning Sept. 1, 2025. Businesses can claim the credit on salaries and wages paid during development of interactive digital media, which include video games, educational software and simulators. The changes support growth in the industry. It employs more than 20,000 people in B.C. and adds more than $1 billion to the province’s gross domestic product every year, according to CreativeBC.

BC Hydro Updates Distribution Extension Policy for Cheaper Costs

In response to B.C.’s growing housing needs, BC Hydro has made changes to support faster, more affordable electricity connections for new homes and businesses throughout the province. The changes, which took effect Saturday, July 5, 2025, are designed to streamline the connection process and reduce costs, particularly for residential developments.

The Distribution Extension Policy had been last updated in 2008 and required the first customer requesting an extension to pay the full cost of system upgrades. The updated policy spreads those costs more broadly, so customers no longer carry the full burden when future users also benefit from upgraded infrastructure. In addition, BC Hydro has increased its contribution to cover more of the cost of extending the electrical system.

First Menopause Clinics Throughout BC Now Open

Women and gender-diverse people who are experiencing complex menopause symptoms can now access specialized care at BC Women’s Hospital + Health Centre’s new Complex Menopause Clinic, a first of its kind in Western Canada.

The clinic provides both in-person and virtual care to patients and enhances existing BC Women’s Hospital-led programs related to complex menopause, such as bone, breast and heart health services. The Complex Menopause Clinic offers a range of services, including specialist consultation, counselling, medication management and referrals to other services. Since opening, the clinic has delivered approximately 150 care appointments to eligible patients whose complex menopause symptoms could not be managed otherwise.

In partnership with the Women’s Health Research Institute and the University of British Columbia, the clinic will embed research throughout its services to increase understanding of people’s experiences through menopause and drive new, evidence-based health solutions. The data collected will be used to inform and improve care for women and gender-diverse people during the menopause transition.

New Public-Events Safety Report Available

I want to recognize the victims, families and communities who have been impacted by the tragic violence that occurred on April 26, 2025, after the Lapu-Lapu Day Festival. We continue to grieve with you, and we are here today because your safety, and the safety of everyone in our province, comes first.

Immediately following the attack, we commissioned Christopher Hinkson, a former chief justice, to support local governments, event organizers and public-safety officials to provide clear, practical guidance to ensure community events are safe this summer and beyond. Today, on July 9, 2025, those recommendations are being made public.

Their findings reflect extensive consultation with communities, Indigenous event planners, law enforcement, municipalities and event organizers and offer clear, practical steps to strengthen security and safety at community events. Most importantly, the report includes new tools that event organizers throughout B.C. can begin using right away, including an event safety plan template and a risk assessment framework. These resources reflect best practices drawn from research, and can be adapted to suit events, large and small, and in rural and urban and Indigenous communities.

While this report provides a strong foundation, there is more work to do. We must continue bringing people together, across sectors and governments, to share best practices, strengthen collaboration and build lasting systems of support. We have received the report and are working through the details, but we accept the intent of the recommendations and are working on how best to act on them, including with other levels of government and event organizers. This is about keeping people safe, supporting healing and maintaining public confidence in the safety of community gatherings.

Pet of the Week!

This summer we’re turning the spotlight on the beloved pets in our community with a brand-new feature: Pet of the Week! Each week, we’ll be featuring one of your adorable pets, whether they’re fluffy, feathery, or even a little scaly – because every kind of companion deserves their moment in the spotlight. Get ready for some serious cuteness!

This week’s feature furry friend is: Sigi

Sigi is a 4-year-old Siberian Forest Cat. She loves to hang out in front of her family's home and go on small walks on a leash with her favourite humans: Trish & Bruce

Sigi's favourite treats are the Salmon flavoured Greenies - because dental care is important and you don't get to be this fabulous looking without attention to detail. But don't let this poised kitty fool you, she does love a good parkour around the living room. 

If you would like to highlight your furry friend, please send a photo of your pet to: Brenda.Bailey.MLA@leg.bc.ca with the following information:

• Pet’s name
• Pet’s breed
• Pet’s age
• Favourite spot in the riding
• Favourite treat/snack
• Favourite human (if applicable)
• Any unique quirks or personality traits 

Parks Canada – B.C. Partnership Supports Wildlife Corridors and Indigenous Stewardship

The federal and B.C. governments are investing a combined $8.3 million to support ecological corridors, nature conservation, and Indigenous stewardship in British Columbia. This funding will support a new agreement focused on improving ecological connectivity, which allows wildlife to move between habitats and helps maintain healthy ecosystems. The initiative emphasizes Indigenous leadership, collaboration across governments, and builds on existing conservation efforts. It aims to combat biodiversity loss, address climate change, and support long-term environmental and community well-being.

Public Engagement on Infrastructure Projects Act Implementation

The B.C. government is seeking public input on the implementation of the Infrastructure Projects Act, which aims to speed up approvals for critical infrastructure. Passed in May 2025, the Act focuses on accelerating project timelines while maintaining high standards.

Over summer 2025, feedback is being gathered on:

• Criteria for Provincially Significant Projects – defining which projects can access streamlined approvals.
• Qualified Professional Certifications – developing a model to improve permitting efficiency while ensuring accountability.

Engagement opportunities include surveys, written submissions, meetings, and advisory groups. Input on the expedited environmental assessment process will begin in fall 2025.

Learn more or get involved: https://engage.gov.bc.ca/infrastructure

Investing in Community Projects to Boost Climate Resilience

The Province of B.C. is providing more than $6 million for 11 projects that will help communities better prepare for and reduce the impacts of natural and climate-related hazards. Funded through the Disaster Resilience and Innovation Funding (DRIF) program, these initiatives support First Nations and local governments in building long-term resilience to events such as floods, droughts, extreme weather, and earthquakes.

As climate-related emergencies become more frequent and severe, the Province is working with communities to implement proactive solutions that protect people, infrastructure, and the environment. This investment reflects a strong partnership between the Province, First Nations, and local governments to enhance safety and strengthen local adaptation efforts.

This is the second round of DRIF funding, following a $21-million investment in May 2025. Since 2017, B.C. has committed over $551 million to nearly 2,800 projects focused on disaster preparedness and mitigation.

Learn Locally with the Vanier Park Attractions Pass!

Explore the best of Vanier Park with the Vanier Park Pass—your ticket to 3 unique experiences at a great deal!

Discover Vancouver’s history at the Museum of Vancouver, step aboard maritime adventures at the Vancouver Maritime Museum, and journey through the cosmos at the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre.

All 3 attractions are located just steps apart in beautiful Vanier Park, near Kitsilano Beach, on the ancestral village site of Senáḵw. With the Vanier Park Pass, you can visit all 3 in a single day—or spread your visits across different days.

Save over 20% when you purchase the attractions together!

Events in Vancouver-South Granville

Carnaval del Sol – Latin American Festival

• When: Jul 11th – 13th
• Where: Jonathan Rogers Park (110 West 7th Ave.)
• Admission: Varies (free admission for kids and seniors)

Celebrating 17 years of Latin culture in BC, Carnaval del Sol is the largest Latin American festival in the Pacific Northwest, showcasing the rich cultures, traditions, and cuisines of Latin America.

This year, we spotlight the energy, resilience, and joy of Latin communities while setting the stage for the FIFA World Cup 2026. Carnaval del Sol is not just a festival; it’s a cultural warm-up for a global celebration — connecting people through the universal languages of music, movement, and shared passion.

Experience the energy of Latin America as we celebrate its most beloved sport with live matches, soccer-themed activities, and performances. Whether you’re a soccer fan or looking to enjoy culture, music, and food, Carnaval del Sol 2025 has something for everyone.

Waitress at the Arts Club Theatre

• When: Jul 11th – Aug 3rd
• Where: Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage (2750 Granville St.)
• Admission:  Varies

Small-town waitress and expert pie-maker Jenna dreams of a new life outside of her tumultuous marriage. Facing an unexpected pregnancy that complicates her desires, Jenna sees winning the grand prize in a pie-baking contest as her lifeline. With pals from the diner and a new romance in her corner, will she find it within herself to take this gutsy leap of faith? Featuring a delectable score by Grammy Award–winning artist Sara Bareilles, this energetic and emotional musical is a treat for the ears and soul. Caution: May induce laughter and insatiable cravings for pie!

Content Advisory: This production contains domestic violence, strong language, and sexually suggestive themes.

23rd Annual Vancouver Chinatown Festival

• When: Jul 12th and 13th 12PM – 6PM
• Where: Keefer and Columbia St
• Admission:  Free

Get ready to celebrate community, culture, and summer fun at the 23rd Vancouver Chinatown Festival, a free two-day family-friendly event proudly organized by the Vancouver Chinatown BIA Society (VCBIA).

Last year, the event was an overwhelming success hosting tens of thousands of visitors to our vibrant Chinatown community. They celebrated the diversity of the community and showcased Chinatown as an inclusive, sustainable, and resilient neighbourhood. Vancouver Chinatown Festival has grown into a highly anticipated summer signature event for Vancouverites as well as tourists from around the world.

Explore the historic neighbourhood while shopping unique offerings from local merchants, enjoying live performances, and taking part in fun activities for all ages!

Brock House Society Summer Fair

• When: Jul 12th 10AM – 3PM
• Where: Brock House Society (3875 Point Grey Rd.)
• Admission: Free!

Bring your own bags. Cash is preferred, but they will accept Debit, VISA and MasterCard.

Free Bus Shuttle: Pick up on the north side of 4th Ave between Alma and Highbury (Closer to Highbury) to Brock House (every 1/2 hour starting at 9:30 am

Brock House Society is a seniors activity centre serving Vancouver, BC., operating out of a sensational heritage building at Jericho Beach.

Music, food, beverages, bargains, fun for all ages and more!

PawsFest at Sunset Beach Park

• When: Jul 12th 11AM – 6PM
• Where: Sunset Beach Park (1204 Beach Ave.)
• Admission: Free (VIP Tickets and Fashion Show Application extra)

PawsFest, happening on July 12, 2025, at Sunset Beach Park in Vancouver, is Canada’s largest outdoor pet festival. This vibrant event celebrates the bond between pets and their families while supporting the Friendly Paws Society, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to helping at-risk youth through animal care.

This FREE festival spans an impressive 400,000 square feet and offers a wide range of activities for pets and their owners. Highlights include:

• A doggy fashion show, showcasing the latest in pet couture, with prizes up to $1,250.
• Agility and freestyle demonstrations, where talented dogs and their handlers put on thrilling performances.
• Puppy yoga, a calming and therapeutic experience for attendees and their furry friends.
• A pet-friendly beer garden, perfect for relaxing with your four-legged companion.
• A bustling marketplace featuring high-quality pet products and services.
• Live music on the mainstage, food trucks offering global cuisines, and an off-leash play area for some canine fun.

It’s a day filled with joy, learning, and community bonding, all set against the stunning backdrop of English Bay. Sounds like a paw-some time, doesn’t it?

A Night of Heritage at Hollywood Theatre

• When: Jul 15th 7PM 
• Where: Hollywood Theatre (3123 W Broadway Ave.)
• Admission: $14 (event is 19+)

Get ready for an unforgettable night of stories, history, and heritage! Join the Vancouver Heritage Foundation for an evening at Hollywood Theatre with Michelle Barile, Tom Carter, and John Atkin as they each share unique stories about Vancouver’s Heritage. Each presentation will speak to Vancouver’s vibrant history of community, place and entertainment.

Jessica Quan will speak to the importance of the Places that Matter Community Resource focusing on sites that have connection to Vancouver’s entertainment history.

Michelle Barile will speak to the resilience of Hollywood Theatre. She will highlight the story of the iconic theatre, community superheroes, and constructive development practices to support the place we love.

Historians Tom Carter and John Atkin Vancouver will share Vancouver’s fascinating history of movie theatres and their influence on the city of Vancouver.

To finish the event, a screening of the 2023 Oh Boy Productions’ video documenting the Vancouver Block clock restoration, capturing a snapshot of Ray Saunders memories as Vancouver’s preeminent horologist.