10 years is enough, mayor says
Vancouver’s Gregor Robertson says he’s not seeking re-election
Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson has announced he’s not seeking re-election this fall after three terms in office.
Robertson said he reflected on his future in politics over the holidays and decided it’s time to step aside.
“Ten years is a long time in politics. An important part of leadership is recognizing when to step aside to make space for new leaders,” he said in a Facebook post Wednesday.
He was first elected mayor in 2008 and by the time he completes his term this October, he’ll have served the longest consecutive run as a mayor in the city’s history.
Robertson is known for leading the city as it hosted the 2010 Olympics, implementing a “greenest city” agenda and for bringing in an empty homes tax to combat soaring housing costs.
He touted his efforts to combat homelessness and the deadly opioid crisis, build partnerships with Indigenous people and fight climate change during his time in office.
“We’ve made great progress towards being the world’s greenest city, we’ve built a creative, resilient economy with leading edge tech and innovation and become a much safer city,” he said. “I am incredibly proud of our accomplishments and I will work hard to see that bold action continue.”
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau thanked Robertson for his friendship, partnership and years of service in a tweet on Wednesday. “Wishing you all the best,” he said.
Premier John Horgan said in a statement that Robertson is “a passionate advocate for people” and thanked him for his many years of public service.
“He was a trusted colleague when we worked together as MLAs in Victoria, and he is a valued partner as we work with local governments to make life better for people,” Horgan said.