Vancouver's report card has just been issued, and while the Canadian city has received high marks in such areas as desirability and ethnic diversity, the city is on the verge of failing in terms of its homelessness and housing affordability.
"Vital Signs 2006", the report released by the Vancouver Foundation, rates the city on 12 key livability indicators. The city -- once named the most livable city in the world -- has excelled in many respects but still has some major social issues. Homelessness, drug addiction, a large gap between the rich and poor, lack of affordable housing, and other concerns were identified as the city's biggest problems. The report also provides ideas for addressing these issues.
"The report is published in a language and format that is easy to read and understand, with the idea that it can be used to stimulate debate in any setting. Each category in the colourful booklet includes an overview of the subject, a letter grade and three priorities for change as identified by the foundation's 200-member citizens' consulting panel."
"Vancouver received a D+ in Housing: It's too expensive for those who can pay and leaves few palatable options for those who can't, said the panel. The ratio of house prices to median income, one of many statistical measures employed by Vital Signs, rates Vancouver as 'severely unaffordable.' "
FULL STORY: Making the grade: A critical look at our city
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