Geoff Meggs to seek Vision Vancouver council nomination with call for action on housing, transit

Geoff Meggs, who worked alongside former Mayor Larry Campbell during his three years leading the city, confirmed today he will be seeking a Vision Vancouver nomination to city council in the upcoming civic election.

“We need get the city moving again,” Meggs said. “Homelessness is a civic emergency that must be confronted, but we need action as well to support the people who make the city work: the people in small business, hospitality, the arts, health services, offices, retail jobs, students and immigrants.

“They can’t afford to buy a house, they can’t afford to rent, they can’t even find a place on the bus.”

Meggs said he will urge city action to spark private sector investment in affordable market housing for families, as well as concrete steps to speed up buses and reduce gridlock.

“The market can provide housing at more affordable rates if the city makes it a priority and works with industry. And the city should get into the transit business, if necessary. We’ve talked a long time about a downtown streetcar. Why not build it?”

Meggs’ campaign will have its formal kick-off March 27 at a fundraising party hosted by broadcast executive and former NDP leader Joy MacPhail. A website will be launched this week at www.geoffmeggs.ca.

Meggs said “the real progress the city made during Larry Campbell’s mandate has been stalled or rolled back under Sam Sullivan, Peter Ladner and the NPA. I believe I have the experience and commitment to help put things back on track.”
“It is an honour and pleasure to endorse Geoff Meggs for city councillor,” said Senator Larry Campbell. “We worked as a team during my time as mayor and his thoughts, ideas and actions were instrumental in the successes of Woodward’s, the establishment of Insite and the growth of the city. He will make an excellent councillor.”

Meggs, a 30-year resident of Vancouver, lives in False Creek. He began his career as a newspaper reporter, moved into a successful career as a labour journalist, became an award-winning author and has held a number of senior positions in the labour movement. He has served on the board of several community and environmental organizations, including the Georgia Strait Alliance. He and his wife, Jan O’Brien, have two adult daughters.

For more information:
Geoff Meggs 604-786-1837
geoff_meggs@telus.net