Burnaby has not experienced wildfires on the scale seen elsewhere in BC, but hotter, drier summers are increasing the risk. Burnaby Mountain requires particular attention because its steep, forested slopes are close to homes and critical infrastructure. But the risk is not limited to the mountain.

Trees cover almost a third of our city, from the forests of Burnaby Mountain and Central Park to those lining our neighbourhood streets. Together, they form an urban canopy that is pivotal to Burnaby’s identity and to the quality of life our residents enjoy.

It is important for residents to know that this upgrade was part of a larger 25-year plan for Burnaby's parks, shaped by extensive feedback from the community. Residents told us what they wanted, and this plan provides a roadmap to meet those needs today while ensuring our park system can keep apace as Burnaby grows and faces new challenges.

The visit marked the announcement of two major projects being planned by the Ismaili community in Burnaby: Generations Burnaby, a mixed-use seniors and community care campus, and the Burnaby Lake multipurpose centre (Pavilion).

Construction plays a vital foundational role in shaping our region—delivering the housing, commercial and industrial infrastructure we need while supporting economic growth, creating jobs and building strong, resilient communities.

To suggest homelessness in our city and the problems associated with it can be solved overnight is not being realistic or understanding of the complex legal, practical and human challenges involved.

Many years ago, I immigrated from Ireland to the greatest country in the world. Canada welcomes people from all cultures and backgrounds, and there is something truly special about the way we come together, can build a life here and continue to learn from one another.

Over the next decade the federal government has committed more than $5 billion toward infrastructure investments in British Columbia. Anything which potentially helps deliver more housing, improve affordability and invests in the infrastructure needed to support our growing community is welcome news.

Burnaby enters the second half of 2026 with strong momentum, as our local companies gain recognition on the global stage and we advance an ambitious capital program that will replace aging civic facilities and reshape everyday life for our residents.

The State of the City address plays an important role each year—updating Burnaby's business community on the progress being made across our city while setting out a clear strategy for the future. This year marked my eighth address as Mayor, and it remains an important opportunity to take stock of where Burnaby stands today and where we are headed.