Unlike many other cities of its size, all Vancouver city councillors are elected at-large, rather than being elected to represent municipal wards.[1] A proposal to move to a conventional ward system was rejected by voters in a 2004 referendum.[2] The mayor chairs council meetings and appoints members to regional boards, such as the Metro Vancouver board of directors.
The Vancouver Charter outlines the structure, powers and responsibility of the city council. Under the charter, the mayor and city council have the power to:[3]
Pass by-laws regulating such things as businesses, building, noise, and land use
Buy and sell property
Collect property taxes and other taxes
Approve major spending for all parts of the City government
Take on debt
Allocate funds for special activities, such as arts and community services
Set up departments and offices for City services
Hire staff for City departments and offices
Council also maintains a number of standing committees which meet to deliberate on specific topics and hear from speakers. Examples include the City Finance and Services Committee and the Policy and Strategic Priorities Committee. Each committee consists of the entire city council. City council also holds public hearings for spot rezonings.
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