Ground Work

10/23/23 • 25 min

In this episode of Urbanism Vancouver, Helen Lui and Aaron Johnson discuss their motivations for starting the podcast, and their backgrounds in urbanism and broadcasting. They explain their goal of providing accessible information about housing and development and shedding light on the complexities of the process. They hope to inspire curiosity and action from their listeners and encourage them to get involved in shaping our built environment.

They also address the misconception about the role of the federal government in addressing the housing crisis, emphasizing that local municipalities have the power to shape neighbourhoods through land use and design regulations. They highlight the lack of awareness about local elected officials and the decision-making processes in cities.

Later in the episode, Helen is joined by Michelle Scarr who shares her experience with public engagement in housing discourse. Michelle explains her motivations for getting involved in local government and her frustrations with the public hearing process, particularly the dominance of a vocal minority and the lack of representation for those who would benefit from new housing.

The conversation then focuses on the need for increased engagement in local politics and the impact of municipal decisions on individuals' lives. Michelle emphasizes the importance of being aware of the issues and having a say in municipal affairs, including voting and getting involved with local parties and volunteering.

Show Credits:
Host: Helen Lui
Producer: Aaron Johnson
Cover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)
Covert Art Titles: Spencer
Website: UrbanismVancouver.com

If you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

If you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Previous Episode

Show Trailer

Urbanism Vancouver explores the built environment of Vancouver, Canada - how we got to where we are, and what our history tells us about how we look forward to the future. We share insights not only from industry experts, but also from passionate advocates, and residents like you. With each episode, we'll look at different components that shape our urban experience in Vancouver, and we'll discuss how we can make cities more vibrant, affordable, and liveable places. With our shared experiences, industry insight and knowledge, perhaps you’ll learn and even be inspired to be more involved in impacting positive change in your community, even if you don’t call Vancouver “home.”

Helen Lui is a seasoned housing and development professional with a fervour for abundant, and affordable housing. With over a decade in both non-market and market developments, her passion lies in sculpting cities that are equitable, sustainable, and livable. She ardently champions civic reforms, targeting exclusionary policies to pave the way for inclusive, equitable urban development.

This podcast series is an independently funded project by both The Host, Helen Lui and Producer, Aaron Johnson. We acknowledge that this podcast is recorded and produced on the traditional and unceded territories of the Coast Salish peoples, including the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present, and emerging, and recognize the enduring connection they have to this land. We strive to have our conversations contribute towards reconciliation and work towards sustainability and equity for all the custodians of the lands.

If you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Next Episode

Building Affordability

Albert Huang, a seasoned expert in affordable housing development is the guest on this episode of Urbanism Vancouver. He unravels the multifaceted issues surrounding Vancouver's housing affordability crisis, and the complexities of defining "affordable," influenced by varying income levels, government programs, and housing entities. The episode dives deep into the intricacies of constructing affordable homes, from the selection of appropriate sites to the challenges presented by zoning, regulations, and the lack of available land. As well as touching upon the financial implications linked to design, permits, and fees, debating the potential benefits of standardized housing designs. The episode culminates by addressing the predominant challenges in modern affordable housing projects, offering insights into an essential urban development conundrum.

Links mentioned in the episode:
Abundant Housing Vancouver: https://www.abundanthousingvancouver.com/