The public can see how the city of Vancouver is performing against 65 key metrics in six categories on its new, online dashboard called VanDashboard.
 
The metrics represent a wide variety of city services provided, as well as monitoring of key issues. Examples include fire incident response times, number of calls for police service, processing of permits for affordable housing development, service centre wait times and water consumed per capita.
 
Where possible, targets have been set and performance is measured against those targets. Many of the metrics are updated quarterly, while others are yearly measures.
 
The public can also drill down into the historical data for each metric and, using the city’s open data portal, can sort and view the data as they wish.
 
The city plans to update the dashboard with new metrics over time, based on public feedback. The public can ask questions or provide their feedback via the contact-us button at the bottom of the VanDashboard landing page.
 
VanDashboard shows performance data for select city services. It includes indicators of how well it is delivering key services, along with progress on its overall goals and strategies. Each category has a number of indicators citizens can check to see how it is doing.
 
“Our first priority is to maintain and improve the core services that meet your needs,” said a city statement. “This includes the basics – things like waste collection, street cleanliness, community centres and pools, and public safety including police and fire and rescue services.”
 
Another goal is to ensure housing in the city supports people of all incomes now and into the future.
 
“We have taken significant action in recent years to address the affordability crisis,” said the statement. “Delivering more housing – including social and low-income housing – and childcare takes collaboration across all levels of government.”
 
It also wants to protect and enhance the city’s climate, ecology, natural resources and connections to the city’s natural setting. This includes accelerating action on climate change.
 
Vancouver has a diverse and thriving local economy, and it says it works to create an environment that promotes and strengthens local businesses while also making the city an attractive destination for new businesses.
 
Located on the territories of the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations, Vancouver’s cultural landscape has been and continues to be enhanced through the rich traditions of these people and others who have made this city home. While this diversity makes the city distinct and exciting, significant social issues such as homelessness, poverty, racism and addictions are barriers to well-being for many. These are measured by the dashboard,
 
“Vibrant cultural experiences are part of the lifeblood of any city, and play a role in a thriving economy, social connections and a sense of environmental responsibility,” said the statement. “In our city, these enriching experiences can be found in arts venues and theatres, our libraries, public spaces, and in many private venues.”