Saul Schwebs Recalls Heart-Wrenching Encounter with Drug Crisis in Vancouver, Building to Be Demolished Soon
This weekend, Vancouver’s iconic 1908-era building at 500 Dunsmuir St. will be demolished. Saul Schwebs, the city’s chief building official, who recommended its demolition in December, will witness the event.
Schwebs highlighted the urgency to demolish the deteriorating building, known as Dunsmuir House, due to its precarious condition, emphasizing the risks of potential collapses.
The decision to demolish the building evoked frustration in Schwebs, originating from his eye-opening experience in April 2017 at the Balmoral Hotel. Witnessing drug use, unsanitary conditions, and poverty, Schwebs understood the urgency of providing safe housing for the vulnerable.
Schwebs, originally from Wisconsin and a trained architect, transitioned to public service in Vancouver to align with his values. As the city’s chief building official, he advocates for building safety and compliance, emphasizing education and voluntary compliance over punishment.
Reflecting on his journey and values, Schwebs shared personal anecdotes and insights into his role as a city official, aligning with his mission to ensure safe housing for all residents in Vancouver.
Schwebs’ dedication to improving living conditions in Vancouver is evident through his work on vacant building task forces and compliance initiatives, aiming to address dilapidated buildings and enforce safety regulations.
As Vancouver faces housing crises and tragedies like the Winters Hotel fire of 2022, Schwebs remains committed to preventing future disasters through improved safety measures and enhanced communication among city agencies.
Before concluding, Schwebs humorously addressed his association with the TV show “Better Call Saul,” acknowledging the running joke among colleagues. Despite the challenges, Schwebs remains focused on his mission to create a safer, more livable Vancouver for all residents.