Stuart Mackinnon, former Commissioner and Chair of Vancouver’s Park Board, spearheaded several initiatives aimed at reconciliation, sustainability, accessibility, and humane urban management:
1. Indigenous Reconciliation & “Truth‑Telling”
- Colonial audit & apology (2018): Mackinnon led the Park Board in conducting a “colonial audit” that documented past injustices—such as displacement and burial‑site disturbances—against the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil‑Waututh Nations. The board acknowledged its colonial role and formally apologized to the Nations.
- Traditional Indigenous naming (2018): He introduced a motion urging the board to work with Indigenous communities to identify and integrate traditional place names (co‑naming or renaming parks and beaches).
- Co‑management of parklands (2022): As board chair, Mackinnon passed a landmark motion directing staff to collaborate with the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil‑Waututh Nations to define and pursue co‑management arrangements for Vancouver parklands.
2. Environmental Stewardship & Animal Welfare
- Banned Cetaceans in captivity (2017). After nearly 40 years of advocacy, Commissioner Mackinnon led the Board in banning captive cetaceans from Vancouver parks.
- Humane pest control (2019): He successfully pushed for the Park Board to explore adopting BC SPCA’s AnimalKind standards in rodent and wildlife control, minimizing unintentional harm to non‑target species like owls and dogs.
- East Fraser Lands park creation (2019): As Chair, Mackinnon led the opening of Neighbourhood Park South—a nearly 0.33 ha green space in a developing waterfront community—emphasizing biodiversity, native planting, and public amenity.
3. Accessibility & Active Transport
- Reimagining vehicle access in Stanley Park (2020): Mackinnon introduced a motion (co‑sponsored by Commissioner Irwin) for staff to study the feasibility of reducing Stanley Park Drive to one car lane year‑round, freeing space for walkers, cyclists, and people with limited mobility.
4. Long‑Term Equity & Infrastructure Planning
- VanPlay strategic plan (2019): Mackinnon backed the citywide parks and recreation master plan, VanPlay—a 25‑year vision focused on equitable park access, using geospatial data to identify underserved neighbourhoods and guide investment.
- Capital investment (2019): As board chair, he helped to unanimously pass a $399 million, 3‑year capital plan (2019–22) to upgrade infrastructure, expand parkland—such as Marpole community centre and Fraser‑River green spaces—and renew aging facilities.
5. Leadership & Governance
- Multiple terms & leadership roles: Mackinnon has been elected Commissioner in 2008–11, 2014–18, 2018–22, serving as Board Chair in 2017–18, 2018–19, and again in 2021–22. His governance priorities included ecological sustainability, climate action, biodiversity, active transportation, reconciliation, and inclusive public spaces.
Stuart Mackinnon left a notable legacy through his long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship, public access, and community engagement.
ðŋ Environmental Advocacy
- He was a consistent voice for preserving and enhancing Vancouver’s green spaces.
- He emphasized park maintenance, conservation, and ecological sustainability, often advocating for parks to remain pristine and accessible to all.
ð️ Public Service and Leadership
- He served multiple terms as a Park Board Commissioner: 2008–2011, 2014–2018, and 2018–2022.
- Known for being well-prepared and deeply informed, he earned respect for his thoughtful approach to policy and governance.
ðĪ Community-Centred Approach
- Mackinnon championed strong partnerships with community centre associations, opposing efforts that undermined their autonomy.
- He believed these associations were the “heart of our neighbourhoods” and should be treated as collaborators, not adversaries.
ðļ Broader Civic Involvement
- Beyond the Park Board, he contributed to civic life as a Trustee of the Vancouver Public Library and a Governor of the VanDusen Botanical Garden Association.
His legacy is one of thoughtful stewardship, grassroots advocacy, and a deep belief in the power of public spaces to build community
These accomplishments highlight his role as a thoughtful, progressive leader who blends environmental stewardship, social justice, and inclusive planning in public park governance.
