Simon Yu defends acute care tower vote as he seeks second term as mayor

“Absolutely it’s important,” Yu said when asked about leading by example.

During his first mayoral campaign, Yu pledged to improve one of his downtown buildings. He acknowledged that progress has taken time, citing financing challenges and infrastructure requirements that need to be addressed before private redevelopment projects can move forward.

Yu said conditions downtown have improved compared to four years ago, but noted additional infrastructure work is still needed. He specifically highlighted the need for upgraded water services along portions of Third Avenue to support fire sprinkler systems that would help facilitate building renovations and upgrades.

“We’re getting there,” Yu said. “Downtown situation is getting much, much better than compared four years ago.”

Yu also addressed the proposed sister-city agreement with Jiangmen, China, a project that has generated discussion in recent months. The mayor emphasized that the initiative did not originate with him personally but stems from efforts that began under previous councils more than two decades ago.

Yu said his broader goal has always been to establish Prince George as an international hub by leveraging assets such as the city’s international airport and the University of Northern British Columbia.

“I would like to hook up with as many countries as possible,” he said, noting that Prince George has also explored relationships with communities in other countries.

According to Yu, Jiangmen has historical connections to Canada through Chinese immigration and shared cultural ties. He said a formal relationship could create opportunities for economic development, business partnerships and cultural exchange. However, Yu stressed that any decision on the agreement ultimately belongs to council. Council voted to postpone consideration of the proposal until after the municipal election, allowing the next council to review it.

“I respect the council decision,” Yu said.

During the interview, Yu was also asked about his participation in a 2024 Regional Hospital District Board vote related to the University Hospital of Northern British Columbia Acute Care Tower project. Questions have previously been raised regarding whether his ownership of nearby properties could have represented a pecuniary conflict of interest.

Yu said he did not believe a conflict existed because the project did not directly affect his properties and was located several houses away. He added that concerns only arose later when utility line placements associated with the project were proposed closer to one of his properties.

At that point, Yu said he stepped back from discussions where he felt there could be a connection to his personal interests.

With the current council term now complete, Yu expressed optimism about working with a new council following the election.

The mayor noted that at least three new councillors are expected to join council after the vote, creating what he described as an opportunity for a fresh start while continuing work already underway.

Rather than identifying major changes he would make in a second term, Yu said he believes the arrival of new council members will naturally bring new perspectives and ideas to City Hall.

“I’m so excited looking forward to a new council,” he said.

Yu said Prince George is entering a pivotal period, with major industrial and economic investments occurring throughout the region. If re-elected, he believes city council’s role will be ensuring Prince George is well-positioned to benefit from that growth.

“This will be an exciting time for me as a leader if I can be re-elected,” he said.

Prince George voters will elect a mayor, eight councillors and school trustees when they head to the polls on Saturday, October 17.

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Email: Adam.Berls@pattisonmedia.com

by Adam Berls

Simon Yu defends acute care tower vote as he seeks second term as mayor

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