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.

During my recent Walk, Roll and Chat, residents from the Capitol Hill neighbourhood in North Burnaby spoke to me about the impact the new YVR flight paths are having on their community—and how tired they are of living under the noise of constant planes week after week.

As we advance the largest capital construction program in Burnaby’s history, it is important that we explain to residents the financial planning that has made these projects possible. Which means clarifying what are reserves, reserve funds and how must we use them?

It was great to be at Web Summit last week, showcasing Burnaby’s innovation economy on the global stage. Not only were we invited to speak, but Burnaby’s growing presence in technology and life sciences was referenced again and again over the course of the summit—from centre stage to the exhibition floor, and in conversations with organizations and founders from around the world.

As a City, we are always looking for ways to improve how we serve our community. Over the past few years, Burnaby has delivered a level of capital investment that is unprecedented in the city’s history, including one of the largest municipal investments in community facilities anywhere in Canada.

Last Friday, I met with Premier David Eby, major community contributors, senior representatives from the Burnaby Hospital Foundation, doctors and frontline staff to discuss the future of Phase 2 of the Burnaby Hospital redevelopment. The meeting took place amid widespread frustration and disappointment across Burnaby following the Province’s announcement earlier that week that the Phase 2 construction contract had been cancelled.

One of the things we are best known for in Burnaby is our exceptional network of parks, outdoor spaces and natural beauty. As we move into the warmer months, we get more opportunities to enjoy these spaces, and it’s also when we host many of our City events.