The Non-Partisan Association has long-struggled with its reputation as the party of choice for Vancouver's monied classes, representing the privileged rather than the city's peons. So, if you wanted to change that reputation, would you book the association's caucus meeting at a) a community centre b) a private office c) a mid-market hotel or d) a swanky business club? If you choose d) a swanky business club, you'd be right. Because last Tuesday, the civic party's elected officials converged on the Terminal City Club for their much-delayed navel-gazing session. The club describes itself as "a private sanctuary and place of retreat" with facilities that excude "comfort and prestige." And what was the explanation for hosting the event there? Well, evidently, this was one of the few places the association could meet for free, with the space being donated. Errr...okay.
You are where you meet?
March 14, 2006
But surely the NPA has only the broader public good in mind...Why else would they be in favour of letting cars back on Granville Street? Because the downtown business improvement association was a big donor and wants them to? Nope. Making it more inconvenient for transit users and less pedestrian friendly is really good for the economy and makes Vancouver much better for everyone.
If Christy Clark was the Mayor, it would have been held at the Ross Street Temple, or the Floata. But, hey -- those places cook with garlic and msg.