Metro Vancouver’s real estate industry is experiencing growing turbulence. One of its largest players, Wesgroup Properties, has confirmed significant layoffs across nearly every department. CEO Beau Jarvis called it “one of the most difficult days” in the company’s 60-year history.

The root cause: a cost-of-delivery crisis — a dangerous mix of:

• 📈 Skyrocketing construction & labour costs

• 💸 High land prices and development fees

• 📉 Depressed pre-sale demand

• 🏦 Elevated borrowing costs

• 🌍 Economic uncertainty post-pandemic

Despite exploring aggressive cost reduction strategies and selling assets to stay liquid, Wesgroup ultimately had to reduce its workforce.

“We exhausted every option. But we’re still standing — and focused on the future,” said Jarvis.

📉 Wesgroup isn’t the only one hit. Rennie, a top Vancouver real estate marketing firm, also announced layoffs this spring — reducing their team by 25%.

✅ Projects Still Moving Forward

Even amid layoffs, Wesgroup continues to push forward with key developments:

🏙 River District (Vancouver) – a massive 130-acre community featuring 10,000 homes
🚇 Inlet District (Port Moody) – 2,600 homes beside Inlet Centre SkyTrain (Phase 1 starts Fall 2025)
🍺 Brewery District (New Westminster) – 1,000 homes + 800K sq ft of commercial/retail space, nearly complete

📊 By the numbers:

• 49+ active developments

• 1,700+ homes currently under construction

• 900+ rental homes in permitting

• 390,000+ sq ft of commercial space under construction

Jarvis emphasized that the company's foundation is strong, and these layoffs are intended to preserve long-term viability, not signal retreat.

⚠️ What This Means

With multiple developers downsizing and construction starts slowing, even Vancouver City Council is acting — recently approving deferred fee payments (DCLs/CACs) to keep projects from stalling further.

Still, systemic reform is needed to avoid more fallout in BC’s real estate industry.

#Wesgroup #RennieGroup #VancouverRealEstate #InletDistrict #RiverDistrict #BreweryDistrict #PortMoodyRealEstate #MetroVancouverDevelopment #ConstructionBC #AffordableHousingCrisis #YVRPreSales #UrbanDevelopmentBC #RealEstateLayoffs #BCRealEstateTrends #HousingSupplyCrisis #VancouverHousingUpdate

Are you ready to be part of one of the world’s biggest sporting events? ⚽🌍

Vancouver is hosting 7 incredible matches for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, and FIFA is officially recruiting volunteers to help make it all happen!

This is the largest volunteer program in FIFA history, spanning one continent, three countries, and 16 host cities. Vancouver will play a central role — and YOU could be a part of it!

🧡 Why Volunteer?

Volunteers are the heartbeat of every FIFA event. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes experience, meet new people from around the world, and contribute to a historic global tournament.

📋 Here’s What You Need to Know:

• ✅ Open to anyone aged 18+

• 🗓️ Recruitment continues through summer and fall 2025

• 📬 Offers will be sent in Jan–Feb 2026

• 🎓 Training sessions will run from April to June 2026

• 🌟 Details are still rolling out, but registration is open NOW

Whether you're a diehard soccer fan or just want to be part of something bigger, this is your moment to shine!

💻 Apply Now:

Click here to register for the FIFA 2026 Volunteer Program

⚽ Let’s bring the world to Vancouver — together! 🇨🇦

#FIFAWorldCup #FIFA26 #Vancouver2026 #VolunteerWithFIFA #SoccerInCanada #FIFAVolunteers #GlobalEvent #FIFA2026Volunteer #BCPlace #TeamVancouver #MakeHistory

The Greater Vancouver real estate market continues to evolve, and May 2025 was no exception. According to the Greater Vancouver REALTORS®, we’ve reached the highest inventory levels in 10 years, while sales remain muted — creating a favorable environment for buyers.

📊 Key Stats for May 2025:

• Total Sales: 2,228 homes (⬇️18.5% from May 2024)

• New Listings: 6,620 (⬆️3.9% YoY)

• Active Listings: 17,094 (⬆️25.7% YoY)

• Benchmark Price (All Properties): $1,177,100 (⬇️2.9% YoY)

• Sales-to-Active Listings Ratio: 13.4%

  • Detached: 10.2%

  • Attached: 17.4%

  • Apartments: 14.7%

🔎 What Does This Mean?

• We're firmly in a balanced-to-buyer’s market, especially in the detached sector.

• Many sellers are adjusting their prices, giving buyers more leverage.

• Despite a slower-than-usual spring, we may be heading toward a surprisingly active summer market as buyer confidence returns.

This may be the perfect opportunity to explore your options whether you’re buying, selling, or investing. The market is shifting—let’s make it work in your favour.

📲 Ready to talk strategy or curious what your home is worth in today’s market?

✨ Tara Kennedy
🏡 REALTOR®, ABR, RENE, SRS
📞 236-992-8989
🌐 TaraKennedy.ca
📧 TaraKennedySells@gmail.com

#MetroVancouverRealEstate #TriCitiesMarketUpdate #HomeBuying2025 #SellerTips #BuyerFriendlyMarket #CoquitlamRealtor #PortMoodyHomes #TaraKennedyRealtor

Tonight marks a monumental moment in Canadian hockey — the Edmonton Oilers face off against the Florida Panthers in Game 1 of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final at Rogers Place in Edmonton. It’s a rematch of last year’s intense seven-game series and another shot for the Oilers to bring the Stanley Cup back to Canadian soil for the first time since 1993. We want the Cup — and the whole country is watching.

🏒 Game 1 Preview

The Florida Panthers return as the defending champions, boasting a disciplined roster and strong playoff experience. With a core led by captain Aleksander Barkov and goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky, they’ve proven they can handle the pressure.

But this isn’t the same Oilers team they faced last year.

Edmonton enters the series red hot. Captain Connor McDavid has been an absolute force, leading the playoffs in points and electrifying fans with every shift. Leon Draisaitl, Zach Hyman, and Evan Bouchard have also delivered standout performances. And let’s not overlook goaltender Stuart Skinner, whose calm presence and timely saves have helped propel the Oilers through a challenging postseason.

Game 1 is more than just a series opener — it’s a statement opportunity for the Oilers on home ice.

🔥 Canadian Stars to Watch

• Connor McDavid (EDM) – The heartbeat of the Oilers, McDavid has been unstoppable this postseason. His leadership and drive to win are unmatched.

• Leon Draisaitl (EDM) – Consistently dominant in the playoffs, Draisaitl's offensive firepower is a game-changer.

• Stuart Skinner (EDM) – The Alberta-born goalie has answered every challenge this spring. A strong performance from Skinner could tilt the series.

🇨🇦 A Nation’s Dream

It’s been over three decades since a Canadian team last lifted Lord Stanley’s Cup. From coast to coast, fans are donning their jerseys, crowding into bars, hosting watch parties, and daring to dream again. Edmonton has become more than a city in this series — it’s the heartbeat of a hockey nation.

As puck drop nears, one thing is clear: Canada is all-in.

📅 What’s Next?

Game 1 takes place tonight in Edmonton. It’s the first step in what promises to be a fast, physical, and emotionally charged series. Win or lose, expect both teams to bring playoff intensity from the first shift to the final whistle.

🗣️ Let’s Go Oilers!

No matter where you are in Canada — from St. John’s to Vancouver — rally behind the blue and orange. Cheer loud, wear your pride, and stay hopeful.

This could be the year.

We want the Cup! 🇨🇦🏆

#StanleyCupFinal, #LetsGoOilers, #WeWantTheCup, #OilersNation, #EdmontonOilers, #CanadaProud, #HockeyNightInCanada, #PlayoffHockey, #StanleyCup2025, #McDavidMagic, #GoOilersGo, #CanadianHockey, #ChasingTheCup, #OilersVsPanthers, #NHLPlayoffs

On June 4, 2025, the Bank of Canada (BoC) announced it is holding the overnight rate steady at 2.75%, with the Bank Rate at 3% and the deposit rate at 2.70%. This marks the second consecutive rate hold following a series of cuts throughout 2024 that were implemented to stabilize the economy after a period of elevated inflation.

But what does this mean for you as a homeowner, buyer, or seller? Let’s break it down.

🧩 Economic Highlights

1. A Mixed Growth Picture
Canada's economy grew by 2.2% in Q1 2025, slightly above expectations. This was driven mainly by strong exports and businesses stocking up inventory—likely to get ahead of ongoing global trade tensions.

However, the Bank expects weaker growth in Q2, as the temporary boost from exports fades and domestic demand remains soft.

2. Inflation in Flux
While the elimination of the federal carbon tax helped pull headline inflation down to 1.7%, core inflation (excluding taxes and volatile items) ticked up to 2.3%, slightly above the BoC’s comfort zone.

This upward pressure is largely due to businesses adjusting prices in response to ongoing tariff-related cost increases, particularly those tied to U.S. trade actions.

3. Labour Market Softening
Unemployment has risen to 6.9%, especially in trade-sensitive sectors like manufacturing and logistics. Consumer confidence has dipped, though household spending remains relatively stable.

🌍 Global Uncertainty Still in the Driver’s Seat

The BoC highlighted uncertainty around U.S. trade policy—especially shifting tariffs—as a major reason for pausing rate adjustments. The potential impact on Canadian exports, business investment, and inflation expectations remains top of mind for policymakers.

The Bank also noted global volatility, including a slowdown in China, fluctuations in oil prices, and changes to defence spending in Europe. All of these have ripple effects on Canada's economy.

🏡 What Does This Mean for Real Estate?

While interest rates didn’t move this round, the current environment presents an opportunity for buyers and sellers to reassess their plans:

• Buyers: A stable interest rate means predictability. If you’ve been on the fence, now may be the right time to get pre-approved and explore your options.

• Sellers: Although the economy is cooling, well-priced homes are still moving. Strategic pricing and strong marketing are more important than ever.

• Investors: With borrowing costs holding, it may be a good time to evaluate long-term opportunities, especially in areas with strong rental demand.

🔮 What’s Next?

The next Bank of Canada announcement is scheduled for July 30, 2025. Until then, the Bank will closely monitor:

• Inflationary trends

• Global trade developments

• Labour market data

• Consumer spending and business investment

Any significant changes could impact the timing of future rate cuts—or signal a shift in direction altogether.

🗝️ Let’s Talk Strategy

Navigating a shifting market takes knowledge, timing, and the right plan. Whether you're thinking about buying, selling, or just curious how today’s trends impact you, I’m here to help you make sense of it all.

✨ Tara Kennedy
🏡 REALTOR®, ABR, RENE, SRS
📞 236-992-8989
🌐 TaraKennedy.ca
📧 TaraKennedySells@gmail.com

#BankOfCanada #InterestRates #RealEstateMarket #TriCitiesRealEstate #TaraKennedySellsHomes #PortCoquitlamRealtor #MarketUpdate #MetroVancouverHomes #RealEstateTips #StayInformed

The Metro Vancouver land market is sending a clear message: developers are cautious, distressed land sales are rising, and the cost of building homes is higher than ever. Behind the scenes, one of the biggest culprits is something many buyers and sellers never see—government red tape and development-related fees that are quietly crushing housing supply.

Despite strong underlying demand, developers are pulling back. The data from Q1 2025 shows a sobering picture:

📉 Distressed Sales Are Becoming the Norm

According to a report from Avison Young, 22% of land transactions over $5 million in early 2025 were court-ordered—a significant jump from 10% during the same period in 2024. These sales are resetting land values across Metro Vancouver, offering lower price points—but even those aren’t enough to spark new construction.

Why? Because the development math just doesn’t work anymore.

💰 The True Cost of Development Is Shocking

Colliers’ EVP Casey Weeks shared a striking example: a 1.4-acre site in Burnaby was bought for $30 million, but the developer had to pay $42.5 million in fees—more than the land itself. These fees include:

• Municipal and regional development cost charges (DCCs)

• Amenity contributions

• Permitting, servicing, and approval costs

• And a long list of other layered government fees

Weeks summarized the situation bluntly:

“Upper levels of government need to take a hard look at this. Not enough homes will be built to catch up to the lack of supply.”

🚧 The Impact of Red Tape Under the NDP Government

The BC NDP government has publicly committed to solving the housing crisis, but many industry experts argue that the policies being implemented are doing the opposite.

Instead of clearing the path for more homes, developers face:

• Inconsistent municipal regulations

• Long delays in permitting

• Ever-rising government fees

• A complex, bureaucratic process that drains resources and time

While headlines promote bold housing targets, the reality on the ground is that many projects are being shelved due to lack of feasibility. Developers can’t move forward if the costs are unpredictable and the policy environment keeps shifting.

🏘️ Demand Is There, But Projects Aren’t Launching

Even with townhomes in places like Surrey and Langley now priced around $900,000 (down from $1.2 million just a few years ago), pre-sale absorption rates are sluggish. Developers can’t secure financing without a strong sales pace, and the higher interest rate environment isn’t helping.

In the Fraser Valley, land sales are down more than 80% from two years ago, according to Varing Marketing Group. That drop reflects developers’ hesitancy to acquire new land without knowing if the economics will work in their favour.

🚀 Some Are Still Moving – But Only in Prime Locations

Some developers are forging ahead in key areas. Polygon Homes recently purchased a high-profile site at Cambie and West 41st with plans for a 31-storey mixed-use tower—but this kind of risk-taking is rare and generally limited to sites near transit and core urban centres.

🔚 Final Thoughts: We Need Policy That Supports, Not Stalls

The housing crisis can’t be solved by market forces alone. Developers want to build, but they’re hitting a wall of fees, delays, and uncertainty—much of it tied directly to provincial and municipal policy.

If the current government, especially the BC NDP, truly wants to improve housing affordability, it must address the crushing costs and bureaucratic gridlock that are stalling supply. Reducing red tape and reforming fee structures isn’t just good policy—it’s essential if we’re going to build enough homes for the future.

Thinking of buying, selling, or investing in Metro Vancouver or the Tri-Cities? Let’s connect. I’m here to help you navigate this ever-changing real estate landscape with experience and insight.

✨ Tara Kennedy
🏡 REALTOR®, ABR, RENE, SRS
📞 236-992-8989
🌐 TaraKennedy.ca
📧 TaraKennedySells@gmail.com

#MetroVancouverRealEstate #LandDevelopment #HousingCrisisBC #RedTape #BCNDP #VancouverHousingMarket #RealEstateNews #DeveloperChallenges #DevelopmentFees #TriCitiesRealEstate #BurnabyRealEstate #VancouverPreSales #PermitDelays #HousingPolicy #TaraKennedyRealtor #RealEstateExpertBC

Let’s Go Whitecaps! 💙🤍

The wait is over. The moment we've all been dreaming about is finally here.
Tonight, Whitecaps FC take the pitch in the Concacaf Champions Cup Final against Cruz Azul — and it’s more than just a match. It's history in the making.

From the first whistle of the tournament to now, it's been a journey of grit, belief, and world-class performances. The climb to the top hasn't been easy, but this team has shown time and time again what it means to fight for every moment.

⭐ The biggest stage.

⭐ The biggest night.

⭐ The chance to bring a continental title home to Vancouver. 🇨🇦🍁

This is the final step. The peak of the climb. The match that could define an era.

Whether you’re cheering from home or in the stands, this is our night. Let’s finish the climb together. Let’s make history.

🗓 Match Day: Sunday, June 1
🕕 Kickoff: 6:00 p.m. PT
📺 Watch: OneSoccer, FuboTV, TELUS Channel 980
🎧 Listen: 730 CKNW, 101.1 HD3

🎥 Watch the Final on OneSoccer

Can’t miss this one? We’ve partnered with OneSoccer to bring fans a special one-month pass for just $9.99 — use code CONCACAF2025 and catch every second of the action.

Let’s rally behind our city.

Let’s back the boys.
Let’s make history.

#VWFC #WhitecapsFC #ClimbToTheCup #CONCACAFChampionsCup #VamosCaps #ForVancouver #CruzAzul #ChampionsCupFinal #SoccerHistory #MakeHistory #MatchDay #WeAreWhitecaps #CanadianSoccer

If you own a home in Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, or Port Moody, you’ve likely received your property tax notice and may be wondering what the different totals mean, whether you're eligible for a grant, or how to avoid late penalties.

This comprehensive guide covers:

• What your tax bill includes

• Who qualifies for the Home Owner Grant

• How to apply (and when!)

• Pre-authorized monthly payment options

• Differences across the Tri-Cities and Metro Vancouver

🧾 What Do Your Property Taxes Pay For?

Your property taxes fund key local services such as:

• Public schools

• Police and fire protection

• Waste collection and water services

• Parks, recreation, and libraries

• Road and infrastructure maintenance

Each municipality calculates their portion, and your bill may also include levies for TransLink, Metro Vancouver, and BC Assessment.

💡 Breaking Down Your Tax Notice

Your bill typically shows three total amounts:

1. No Grant (Full Amount): What you pay if you don’t apply for a grant

2. Basic Grant Applied: Amount after the standard Home Owner Grant

3. Additional Grant Applied: Amount after the senior or disability grant

Important: Grants are not applied automatically. You must apply each year, even if you've received them before.

✅ Home Owner Grants: Who Can Apply?

Basic Home Owner Grant

Reduces your taxes by up to $570
To qualify, you must:

• Live in the home as your principal residence

• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident

• Have a property with an assessed value under $2.15 million (2024 threshold)

Additional Grant (Seniors, Disability, Veterans)

Reduces your taxes by up to $845
You may qualify if you:

• Are 65 or older

• Have a disability or receive disability assistance

• Are a veteran or surviving spouse receiving federal benefits

📝 How to Apply for the Home Owner Grant

You now apply directly through the BC government, not your local city.

🔗 Apply online: gov.bc.ca/homeownergrant

You’ll need:

• Your jurisdiction number and roll number (from your tax notice)

• Your SIN (if applying for the additional grant)

📞 Prefer to call? Reach out to BC Grant Services: 1-888-355-2700

🗓️ Property Tax Due Date: July 2, 2025

Across the Tri-Cities, property taxes are due by July 2, 2025.
This includes:

• Coquitlam

• Port Coquitlam

• Port Moody

⚠️ A penalty (usually 5%) will be applied to any unpaid amount after the due date — including if you forget to apply for the Home Owner Grant.

💳 Monthly Payment Options to Simplify Budgeting

Looking to avoid a large lump-sum payment in July? Consider enrolling in your local municipality’s Pre-Authorized Payment Plan. This allows you to spread your property tax bill into monthly installments, making it easier to manage your household budget throughout the year.

Explore the programs available in your community:

• Port Coquitlam: Port Coquitlam Pre-Authorized Plan

• Coquitlam: Coquitlam Monthly Payment Program

• Port Moody: Port Moody Property Tax Pre-Authorized Payment

These plans are an excellent option for homeowners who prefer consistent monthly payments over an annual lump sum.

🧓 What About Tax Deferment?

If you are:

• 55+

• A surviving spouse

• A person with a disability

…you may qualify to defer your property taxes through the BC Property Tax Deferment Program.

🔗 Learn more: gov.bc.ca/propertytaxdeferment

🌍 Is It the Same in Metro Vancouver?

Yes — although rates and penalties vary slightly, the Home Owner Grant, tax deferment, and pre-authorized monthly payment options apply across the entire Metro Vancouver region, including:

• Burnaby

• Surrey

• Vancouver

• New Westminster

• Richmond
  …and others.

Always check your city’s website for exact local rates, due dates, and payment options.

👋 Have Questions?

Whether you're a first-time homeowner or a long-time resident, navigating property taxes can be confusing. If you’d like help reviewing your tax notice or applying for grants, I’m just a call or message away.

📌 Quick Recap

✔️ Check your bill for grant eligibility
✔️ Apply for the grant before July 2
✔️ Consider monthly payment plans or deferment if eligible
✔️ Don’t risk late penalties

✨ Tara Kennedy

🏡 REALTOR®, ABR, RENE, SRS
📞 236-992-8989
🌐 TaraKennedy.ca
📧 TaraKennedySells@gmail.com

#TriCitiesRealEstate #MetroVancouverHomes #PropertyTaxTips #HomeOwnerGrantBC
#PortCoquitlamRealEstate #CoquitlamLiving #PortMoodyHomes #BCRealtor #HomeOwnerHelp
#BCPropertyTax #TaxDeadlinesBC #RealEstateTipsCanada #RealEstateTaxes #TaraKennedy #TaraKennedyRealtor #RoyalLePageEliteWest #PropertyTaxHelp #TaxDefermentBC #BCGrants #UnderstandingTaxes #PayPropertyTaxOnline

A recent BC Court of Appeal decision — Sewell v Abadian, 2025 BCCA 158 — is sending ripples through the real estate community and could significantly impact how Property Disclosure Statements (PDS) are used and interpreted in property transactions across the province.

🔍 The Case in Brief:

In this case, the seller crossed out every question in the standard PDS form and included only one note:
“Tenanted Property, Owner has never occupied.”

The buyer submitted a subject-free offer, which was accepted. Later, she discovered that the family room had been enclosed without a permit and attempted to walk away from the deal, claiming the PDS was misleading.

At issue: Can a crossed-out PDS still be considered a misrepresentation if the seller has knowledge of a problem and doesn't disclose it?

✅ The Court of Appeal’s Ruling:

Yes.
The Court concluded that even a fully crossed-out PDS can constitute a misrepresentation if the seller knew about issues — such as unpermitted work — and failed to disclose them.

This marks a significant shift from previous understandings where crossing out the PDS was considered a neutral or protective action, especially for:

• Tenanted properties

• Estate sales

• Situations where sellers had limited knowledge of the home

⚖️ Why This Matters for Sellers and Buyers:

This decision challenges common industry practices and could change the way risk is handled in transactions going forward.

📌 Takeaway for Sellers:

If you wish to avoid making any statements or representations about the condition of a property, the best approach may now be to avoid providing a PDS at all. Simply crossing out the standard items and adding a general comment may no longer protect you legally — especially if you are aware of any defects, unpermitted work, or material facts.

📌 Takeaway for Buyers:

Making a subject-free offer is a high-risk move, especially when minimal information is provided. This ruling highlights the need for:

• Thorough due diligence

• Professional inspections

• Asking the right questions — even when disclosure appears limited

Buyers should be cautious and strategic when considering offers without contingencies.

🧭 Navigating Forward:

The Sewell v Abadian decision is likely to influence how contracts are drafted, how disclosure is approached, and how real estate professionals advise their clients.

If you’re navigating a real estate transaction — as a buyer or a seller — it’s more important than ever to have the right advice and representation.

📞 Questions about how this affects you?
Let’s talk. I’m here to guide you confidently through the changing legal landscape of BC real estate.

✨ Tara Kennedy
🏡 REALTOR®, ABR, RENE, SRS
📞 236-992-8989
🌐 TaraKennedy.ca
📧 TaraKennedySells@gmail.com

#BCRealEstate #BCLawUpdate #SewellvAbadian #DisclosureMatters #PropertyDisclosure #SubjectFreeOffer #TenantedProperties #RealEstateTips #TaraKennedyRealtor

Every year, Canadians across the country enjoy a long weekend in May known as Victoria Day. But beyond the extra day off and the unofficial kickoff to summer, Victoria Day holds historical significance that’s deeply woven into Canada’s identity.

🌸 What Is Victoria Day?

Victoria Day is a Canadian statutory holiday celebrated in honour of Queen Victoria’s birthday, who was born on May 24, 1819. It’s one of the oldest holidays in Canada that’s not tied to religion. The first official recognition of the day came in 1845, during Queen Victoria’s reign. After her death in 1901, it was declared a legal holiday in Canada.

Since 1952, the holiday has been observed on the Monday before May 25, which means the actual date varies from year to year. In 2025, Victoria Day falls on Monday, May 19.

👑 Why Queen Victoria?

Queen Victoria played a key role in shaping Canada's identity. Under her reign, Canada officially became a self-governing dominion of the British Empire with the passage of the British North America Act in 1867. She was widely respected and beloved by the Canadian people during her lifetime, and her legacy continues to be honored to this day.

Victoria Day not only celebrates her birth but also serves as the official birthday of the reigning Canadian monarch, regardless of their actual date of birth. It's a unique Canadian tradition, as other Commonwealth nations do not observe this particular holiday.

🌞 The Unofficial Start of Summer

Beyond the historical context, Victoria Day marks the unofficial beginning of summer in Canada. Gardens come alive, patios open up, and Canadians everywhere take full advantage of the extra day to enjoy the outdoors. It’s a seasonal shift that brings longer days, warmer weather, and a renewed sense of energy.

While some provinces and territories mark the day differently—or not at all—Victoria Day is widely celebrated in most parts of Canada, including British Columbia.

🇨🇦 Victoria Day in Vancouver

Although Vancouver doesn’t host official public fireworks for Victoria Day like some other cities, the weekend remains a vibrant and meaningful part of the city’s seasonal rhythm. From enjoying extra time with family to taking in the natural beauty of the Lower Mainland, the long weekend offers a moment of pause and appreciation.

📝 Final Thoughts

Victoria Day is more than just a long weekend—it’s a reminder of Canada’s connection to its past and the monarch who helped shape it. Whether you’re relaxing at home, reflecting on history, or simply enjoying the extra day, it’s a meaningful marker in Canada’s cultural calendar.

Happy Victoria Day, Vancouver! 🇨🇦
Let’s celebrate where we’ve come from—and the summer ahead.

#VictoriaDay #QueenVictoria #CanadianHistory #StatHoliday #MayLongWeekend #VancouverBC #StartOfSummer #CanadaTradition #VictoriaDayFacts

During this week’s Clean City Blitz, several instances of illegally dumped large items were discovered in our community. This ongoing issue not only affects the cleanliness and appearance of our neighbourhoods, but it also creates unnecessary environmental and safety hazards.

Fortunately, the City of Port Coquitlam offers a convenient and free solution for properly disposing of unwanted large household items. The Large Item Pick-Up Program is designed to reduce illegal dumping and ensure that bulky items are disposed of responsibly and efficiently.

What is the Large Item Pick-Up Program?

This program allows qualifying households to schedule two free curbside pick-ups per calendar year, with a maximum of three items per pick-up (for a total of six items annually). Items commonly accepted include:

• Mattresses (must be plastic-wrapped)

• Furniture

• Appliances

• Tires

• Exercise equipment

• And more

Please note: only households that receive City waste services and pay a solid waste levy on their property tax bill are eligible. If you're a renter, you can still use the program with your landlord's permission. The property owner must contact the City to authorize participation.

How to Book a Pick-Up

Booking your large item pick-up is easy. Simply follow these steps:

1. Ensure Eligibility
   Confirm that your household qualifies under the program guidelines. Renters must have the property owner's approval in advance.

2. Submit a Request Online
   Fill out the online booking form at portcoquitlam.ca/largeitem. You can schedule up to two pick-ups per year, with a limit of three items per pick-up.

3. Wait for Confirmation
   The City will send you an email within 2-5 business days to confirm your pick-up date. Be sure to check your spam or junk folder if you don’t see the email.

4. Prepare Your Items
   Do not place items curbside until your confirmed pick-up date. Any items left out in advance may be considered illegal dumping and can result in fines. On the day of your appointment, place your items at the curb by 7:00 am.

Please keep in mind that requests submitted in the final two weeks of the calendar year may count toward the following year’s allotment. Also, pick-ups can only be scheduled up to two weeks in advance.

Know Before You Book

Not all items are accepted. Submitting unapproved items or failing to follow the preparation criteria may result in your pick-up being denied. Before scheduling your appointment, review the full list of accepted and unaccepted items on the City’s website to avoid any issues.

Let's Keep Port Coquitlam Clean

By using the Large Item Pick-Up Program, residents can help maintain a clean, safe, and beautiful city for all. Avoid the fines and frustration that come with illegal dumping—take advantage of this free and accessible service instead.

For more information or to book your pick-up, visit: www.portcoquitlam.ca/largeitem

#PortCoquitlam #LargeItemPickup #PoCoProud #CurbsideCleanup #IllegalDumping #WasteSmart #CleanCityBlitz #CommunityCleanup #ResponsibleDisposal #WasteManagement #CityServices #EcoFriendlyLiving #DeclutterResponsibly #BulkyItemDisposal #SustainableLiving #KeepPoCoClean #PublicWorks #UrbanCleanUp #PoCoCleanup #GreenCommunity

Today marks 20 years since you passed away, and I miss you more than words can say. There’s an ache that doesn’t fade, and on days like today, that ache feels louder. Mother’s Day brings a mix of gratitude for the time we had and sorrow for the moments we’ll never share.

I’m thinking of you today and cherishing every memory we shared. The little moments, the laughs, the advice - the way you always knew how to make things better. Even though you’re no longer physically here, your love, strength, and influence are still with me every single day. It’s not always easy, and I often find myself wishing I could hear your voice or feel your hug. But your presence in my heart, your lessons, and your wisdom continue to shape who I am.

But I’m learning to carry you with me, to honour you in how I love my own children, and to keep your spirit alive in the choices I make. I miss you sooo much, and I Will Always Love You.

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