Charles Kelly grew up in Ontario, and after graduating from Queen’s University with a history degree, served in the federal public service with responsibilities including advising on budgets, working on the Canada Mortgage and Housing Act, and consulting with provinces and cities on urban issues.

 

He also advised on the UN Conference on Human Settlements in Vancouver, and the Habitat Forum in 1976. That led many years later to his 2004 appointment as commissioner general for the UN World Urban Forum on Sustainable Cities, which Canada hosted in Vancouver in 2006. His duties included managing a $27-million budget and working with the Governing Council of 70 nations.

 

In 2012, Charles was a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Award for Community Service.

 

Charles has lived in Vancouver for 38 years and owned three businesses here, including popular Gastown pub The Blarney Stone. His 14 years owning and operating that business was a lesson in dealing with a facility overseen by the municipal police, fire services, health inspectors and the Liquor Control Board.

 

Charles has two grown children who were schooled in Vancouver, where he served as a soccer and baseball coach.