Vancouver City Council

1. Provincial Liquor Licensing Policies (File 2611)

MOVED by Councillor Louie
SECONDED by Councillor Stevenson

WHEREAS the provincial government has introduced significant changes in liquor licensing policies - including hours of operation, licensing types, and new licensees - that have planning, zoning and regulatory implications for municipalities; and

WHEREAS the provincial government plans to close government liquor stores and distribution centres and turn over all beverage alcohol sales to for-profit companies; and
WHEREAS similar changes of policy in Alberta led to a tripling of the number of liquor stores and caused the Calgary and Edmonton police departments to report significant increases in alcohol-related crimes; and

WHEREAS it appears that responsibility for more policing costs and social services may be downloaded to local governments; and

WHEREAS studies show Alberta's changes have led to higher consumer prices, more stores with less genuine selection, marginalized workers, a host of social problems, and in real terms, decreasing government revenues; and

WHEREAS there has been no opportunity for public discussion and community input into these far-reaching changes

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we urge the Provincial government to institute a moratorium until the end of 2003 to allow municipalities adequate time to develop the appropriate regulations and policies to regulate the sales and distribution of liquor; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Council request the Provincial government to provide a formal vehicle - perhaps through the appointment of a commissioner, a committee of MLA's, or similar means - to allow for discussion with communities and municipal input into these issues.

-postponed