Vancouver Rundown Thursday June 26, 2025
Summary
Richmond Mayor Malcom Brodie is not apologizing for grabbing a news camera on Tuesday. Brodie says the Global News TV camera was up in his face after he had already said no to answering questions about a European trip taken by city employees and those working at the Olympic Oval. The mayor says the incident happened at a family oriented event and the interview was not prearranged. At a Wednesday media availability, Premier David Eby said journalists have a tough job and we have to respect their role in holding politicians to account.
Other news…
Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke is adding her voice to the call for the federal government to declare extortion groups - terrorists. Locke says she’s been getting calls from Surrey residents who are too afraid to call police. Surrey is one of several Lower Mainland cities where South Asian business leaders have been threatened. Recent arsons and several shootings are linked to organized crime groups involved in extortion.
Some aggressive cougars have forced a closure of hiking trails in Garibaldi Park. While no one has been hurt, Conservation Officers are now warning people to stay away from the Singing Pass area where the big cats have been spotted. Trail closures also remain in effect in Whistler-Blackcomb after several cougars had encounters with people.
TransLink has announced four more nights of closures on the Pattullo Bridge. The north lanes will be closed from 9:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. Thursday and Friday this week and Wednesday and Thursday next week. The south lanes will remain open during those nights.
Clouds and showers Thursday. A mix of sun and cloud Friday and Saturday. Here are the latest conditions from our private weather station in Surrey.
Top five stories to know
Global News: Richmond mayor defends grabbing news camera, dodging question
Surrey Now Leader: Surrey mayor calls on feds to declare extortion groups terrorists
CityNews: Worker injured at Oakridge construction site in Vancouver
Vancouver Sun: Garibaldi Park trails shut down due to aggressive cougars
CTV: Pattullo Bridge closing northbound for 4 nights this week and next
Business stories to know
The Tyee: The Xatśūll fight to halt Mount Polley mine’s tailings expansion
CTV: B.C. sees drop in American visitors amid cross-border tension
Opinion
Business In Vancouver: Rob Shaw: A dying child deserves more than a B.C. politician passing the buck
Journalism matters
The Tyee: Sim's ABC fined for taking illegal 2022 campaign contributions
That’s cool
Bonus
Business In Vancouver: Metro Vancouver weighs overhaul of developer fees amid industry pushback