Motion calls for reinstating seasonal lifeguards to ensure public safety on Vancouver beaches this summer

VANCOUVER, B.C. - Green City Councillor and mayoral candidate Pete Fry has introduced a motion to restore seasonal lifeguard services at several of Vancouver’s busiest beaches ahead of the 2026 summer season.

The proposal would direct staff to allocate up to $600,000 to reinstate lifeguard coverage at Spanish Banks East and West, Sunset Beach, and Third Beach. These are locations that serve thousands of residents and visitors each summer.

Access to safe, supervised beaches is a core public service that supports recreation, public health, and community well-being. These waterfront areas are among the most heavily used in the city and are expected to see increased demand as Vancouver welcomes visitors for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

“Lifeguards are a basic public safety service,” said Fry. “If we want people to safely enjoy our beaches, especially with more visitors coming to the city, we need to make sure those services are in place.”

Earlier this spring, Fry sought to bring forward an emergency motion to secure funding for lifeguard services ahead of the summer season. That request was not approved by Mayor Sim, despite growing concerns about the potential removal of lifeguards from key beaches.

If approved, the motion directs City staff to:

• Allocate up to $600,000 to restore seasonal lifeguard services
• Work with the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation to implement coverage at key beaches
• Report back with timelines to ensure services are in place for the 2026 beach season

The proposal aligns with Council’s commitment to maintaining core services under the current budget framework and recognizes lifeguard coverage as a frontline public safety measure.

“We shouldn’t be cutting corners on safety,” Fry added. “This is a modest investment that helps prevent serious incidents and ensures people can enjoy our beaches with confidence.”