Ian Cromwell (he/him) moved back to his birthplace of Vancouver in 2009 after completing an MSc in Epidemiology at Queen’s University to work in cost-effectiveness research at BC Cancer. Since completing his PhD in 2019, Ian has been helping the health care system make evidence-guided decisions in his role at the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health. As a Health Economics Manager at CADTH, Ian investigates scientific studies, ensuring that public funds are being spent on treatments that will provide good value.
A classically-trained violist and multi-instrumentalist, Ian can also be found performing live on stages and sidewalks around the city. His passion for Vancouver’s grassroots arts and culture scene led him to create Locals Lounge - a grassroots incubator for the local music community. Locals Lounge’s mission is to help Vancouverites find connection using the power of live performance. Housing affordability and a lack of opportunity to interact with neighbours makes Vancouver a city where it is hard to build and maintain friendships and other relationships. Ian believes that investing in healthy communities produces great value, and that sharing art and culture with each other brings us together and makes communities healthier.
Get to know Ian
What neighbourhood do you live in?
Kensington Cedar-Cottage
Who is your favourite musician?
Huge fan of a local band called Small Town Artillery
Which is your favourite Vancouver restaurant?
Calabash Bistro
Where is your favourite spot in Vancouver that hardly anyone else knows about?
The Anza Club, especially the basement!
Name one book you’ve read that had a profound influence on you.
High Price by Carl Hart
Who is your political hero or role model?
I think it's bad to idolize individuals. Movements are what achieve results!
It's the end of your first term (on Council, SB, PB). What three achievements are you most proud of?
1. Meaningful reallocation of funds away from VPD and toward community services;
2. Rapid increase in high-density housing approvals;
3. More live music everywhere!
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