The episode opens with a compelling presentation from lacrosse advocate Dylan Jones, who addressed City Council about the deteriorating condition of the outdoor lacrosse box at Moody Park. Jones highlighted the real impact that aging and underfunded infrastructure is having on young athletes and the broader lacrosse community. While over $300,000 had previously been allocated for interim improvements, those funds have yet to be utilized, with the project now tied to a larger future redevelopment plan.

The discussion then shifts to regional politics, featuring commentary on Councillor Daniel Fontaine’s recent appearance on The Mike Smith Show (AM 730). Fontaine spoke critically about Metro Vancouver’s ongoing investigation into alleged information leaks, characterizing it as an unnecessary expense with little expected value for taxpayers.

Attention then turns to Simcoe Park, where Paula Naylor, President of the New Westminster Community Gardens Society, raised concerns about a proposed asphalt pathway that could negatively affect community garden space. As an active member of the cycling community, Naylor emphasized the need to balance accessibility improvements with preservation of green space.

A key policy discussion follows on what Councillor Fontaine has described as “density without dollars.” Using the Royal City Towers proposal as a case study, the episode examines how over 1,000 new housing units could bring significant population growth - without corresponding investment in public amenities. The panel discusses how the City’s decision to prioritize provincial responsibilities like affordable housing and tenant relocation has come at the expense of securing approximately $11.6 million in potential community amenity contributions.

The episode wraps with a look ahead at recent and upcoming community events, including a lookback at the April 30 NW City Matters forum focused on local schools, along with additional NWP outreach activities.

A wide-ranging episode covering infrastructure, regional governance, land use, and community advocacy in New Westminster.

Aquatic Centre Costs, Community Voices & Metro Vancouver in Court

This week on For the Record, Councillors Daniel Fontaine and Paul Minhas return with a wide-ranging discussion on major civic issues, community concerns, and regional developments impacting New Westminster.

🏊 $114 Million Aquatic Centre – Where Was the Funding?

The episode opens with a discussion on the final report for the təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre, the $114 million facility that replaced the Canada Games Pool.

The hosts examine the lack of federal and provincial funding for the project and ask whether more could have been done to secure outside investment. The segment includes a notable exchange from council between the Mayor and Councillor Daniel Fontaine, touching on senior government funding and priorities.

🏘️ Tiny Home Village Raises Community Concerns

The podcast then highlights presentations from residents at a recent council meeting held in Queensborough.

Ben Gill speaks about concerns related to the proposed tiny home village, including what he believes is the absence of clear conditions around safety, integration, and expectations for the site.

🚲 Bike Lane Accessibility Under Scrutiny

Another delegation comes from Jim Hurst, who raises concerns about the 7th Avenue bike lane project.

Hurst questions whether the design has compromised sidewalk accessibility, particularly for seniors and those with mobility challenges. His remarks sparked discussion in the community regarding whether pedestrian priorities are being upheld in practice.

⚖️ Metro Vancouver Faces Legal Challenge

The episode also features a segment from The Mike Smyth Show (AM730), where Daniel Fontaine discusses new developments involving Metro Vancouver.

The City of Surrey has launched a legal challenge related to the Invest Vancouver initiative, alleging potential breaches of the Local Government Act. The case adds another layer to ongoing concerns about governance, accountability, and regional decision-making.

🤝 Get Involved: Events & Volunteering

The podcast wraps with a look ahead at opportunities for community involvement, including:

• Door knocking with NWP candidates
• Upcoming NW City Matters forums:
• 📍 April 30 – Lord Tweedsmuir Elementary (Schools & Education focus)
• 📍 May 6 – Downtown Edition
• (Both starting at 6:30 p.m.)

Listeners are encouraged to visit nwprogress.ca and follow NWP on social media for more details.

🎉 Thank You & Community Momentum

The episode closes on a high note, celebrating a sold-out fundraiser at the Taverna Greka restaurant with over 140 attendees - capped off with a touch of Greek music to thank supporters and listeners.

🎧 For the Record is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

📣 Stay informed, stay engaged - and be part of the conversation shaping New Westminster.

Johnstone Announces Mayoral Run - A Closer Look at the Record

This week’s episode of For the Record drops on a special Wednesday release, following Mayor Patrick Johnstone’s official announcement that he'll be seeking another term as mayor of New Westminster. NO APRIL FOOL's!

Co-hosted by Daniel Fontaine and Paul Minhas, the episode takes a closer look at what that announcement means - and what voters may want to consider as the city heads toward the October 17th civic election.

🗳️ 12 Years In… Asking for 16

The podcast opens with discussion around Johnstone’s time in office - 12 years on council - and his decision to seek another four-year term to continue advancing his ideology and agenda.

The hosts ask a central question:

What remains to be accomplished after more than a decade in office - and is a new direction worth considering?

💸 Taxes, Spending & Affordability

A major focus of the episode is affordability, including:

• 30%+ property tax increases over this current term in office alone!
• Spending priorities that many residents are questioning
• Whether current financial decisions align with the pressures facing households today

🚲 Priorities at City Hall

The discussion also explores broader priorities, including:

• Heavy investments in bike lane infrastructure versus basic core services
• High-profile spending decisions such as the $500,000 “mushroom wall” in Queen's Park
• Ongoing concerns about aging infrastructure and service delivery

🏛️ Leadership & Accountability

Fontaine and Minhas also examine:

• Questions around public consultation and responsiveness
• The decision to support a “Sue Big Oil” initiative and related costs
• Past controversies, including the business class all expenses paid Dubai trip and Ethics Commissioner findings

🏙️ Growth, Development & Regional Role

The episode also touches on:

• Major development approvals, including Columbia Square
• The city’s role at Metro Vancouver and whether stronger advocacy is needed
• The long-term impact of growth on infrastructure and livability

⏳ Looking Ahead to the Election

As the campaign season begins to take shape, the hosts frame the conversation around choice - encouraging listeners to reflect on the past, assess current priorities, and consider what direction they want for New Westminster moving forward. A choice of status quo - or positive change to make progress in our city.

🎧 For the Record is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

📣 This is shaping up to be a pivotal election - and the conversation is just getting started.

New West Progressives school trustee candidate Lucas Steele joins Councillor Paul Minhas as guest host, sharing his story, his priorities, and why he’s running to represent students and families in New Westminster.

Drawing from his own experience at New West Secondary, Steele speaks candidly about the challenges students are still facing today - from feeling unsafe in school spaces, to gaps in mental health support, to the need for stronger communication and trust between parents and the school board.

He also tackles some of the bigger systemic issues:

• The impact of provincial funding decisions on local classrooms

• The importance of supporting teachers and staff

• The need for greater transparency and accountability in how decisions are made

At its core, Steele’s message is clear: students need to feel safe, supported, and heard - and the system needs to be more responsive to the people it serves.

The episode also widens the lens to the broader civic landscape. Political analysts Keith Baldrey and Jas Johal weigh in on why New Westminster is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched races in the region - and why the outcome matters.

Plus, a deeper dive into the growing controversy around the proposed “Tiny Town” site in the West End, including new concerns raised about its proximity to active rail lines and what that means for safety.

🎧 It’s a wide-ranging conversation on schools, leadership, and the future of New Westminster.

Take a listen and hear what’s at stake.

This week on For the Record, Councillor Paul Minhas is joined by special guest host Maryann Morrison, who sits in for Daniel Fontaine while he takes the week off from the podcast.

The episode begins with a preview of the topics ahead before turning to the latest NW City Matters forum in Sapperton, which drew a large and engaged crowd. Residents raised a wide range of concerns, including train whistle cessation, slow building permit timelines, parking shortages, and the double bike lanes near Royal Columbian Hospital.

The strong turnout at the community forum was contrasted with a much smaller audience - described as only a 'handful of people' - who attended a keynote presentation by the mayor to the Downtown Residents Association at the same time.

Next, the podcast features a Global News segment highlighting how the City of North Vancouver and District of North Vancouver mayors are now calling for a public inquiry into the North Shore wastewater treatment plant financial debacle and broader governance reform at Metro Vancouver. Minhas and Morrison note how much of the language being used mirrors arguments that Councillor Daniel Fontaine has been raising for years.

Another major topic is the controversial “Tiny Town” supportive housing project. The hosts discuss concerns raised by residents about the lack of advance notification, consultation, and the lack of a Good Neighbour Agreement prior to the project being announced for New Westminster. They also discuss how the issue of a lack of consultation could become a major topic in the upcoming civic election campaign taking place on October 17th.

Housing policy also takes centre stage as the podcast examines proposed infill housing rezonings scheduled for a public hearing later this spring. Hundreds of single-family properties could be affected, with potential zoning changes allowing up to six units per lot and buildings up to three storeys in height. The hosts discuss concerns raised in other municipalities, including Burnaby, where similar developments have sparked debate about neighbourhood character.

The episode also revisits the ongoing issue of Queensborough secondary school bus funding, which has still not been confirmed by the provincial Ministry of Education. The podcast features a clip from Don Doyle, a Queensborough resident who has been advocating for the bus service and recently announced he will run for school trustee with the NWP.

🎧 For the Record is available on *Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

Live from the BC Legislature

This week’s episode of For the Record comes to listeners from a unique setting - the halls of the British Columbia Legislature in Victoria.

Councillors Daniel Fontaine and Paul Minhas record the podcast live inside the historic legislative building, with tours and visitors passing by in the background. The episode opens with reflections on the MLAs and media personalities they met with during their visit, as well as commentary on the significance and history of the legislature itself.

🌉 The Pattullo Bridge: Final Days & Big Debate

The first major topic tackles the community debate surrounding the future of the Pattullo Bridge, originally built in 1939.

The discussion was sparked after Councillor Minhas openly mused about whether the aging bridge could be preserved as a linear park rather than demolished outright. The idea generated strong reactions - some residents arguing the bridge should be torn down immediately to save money, while others supported at least exploring preservation options.

Although the proposed “Party on the Pattullo” never materialized, the conversation highlighted how much the bridge means to many in the community. With demolition likely to begin soon, the hosts agree it's now time to say goodbye to a historic piece of New Westminster’s skyline.

🏛️ Metro Vancouver Reform on AM 730

The episode also features an excerpt from Daniel Fontaine’s appearance on The Jas Johal Show on AM 730, guest-hosted by Robin Gill.

The interview focuses on Metro Vancouver governance, specifically the cost of stipends and honorariums paid to board members and whether meaningful reform is needed to make the regional body more transparent and accountable to taxpayers.

📅 Upcoming Events

The podcast wraps with a look ahead to the next NW City Matters Forum, taking place:

📍 Sapperton Community Hall (Keary Street)

📆 March 4

⏰ 6:30–8:30 p.m.

Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in the discussion. Details — along with information about upcoming fundraisers and events - can be found at nwprogress.ca.

🎧 For the Record is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

Community Reflection, Budget 2026 & Campaign Momentum

This week on For the Record, Councillors Paul Minhas and Daniel Fontaine return to the studio and share an important programming update: as the October 17 civic election approaches, the podcast will now move to a bi-weekly format, featuring a range of special guest hosts in the months ahead.

🕯️ A Somber Reflection: Tumbler Ridge Tragedy

The episode opens with commentary on the recent Tumbler Ridge shootings in British Columbia. Fontaine reflects on growing up in a small community with a grades 7–12 high school, where everyone knew each other - and how deeply a tragedy like this can affect a tight-knit town.

Both hosts emphasize the importance of mental health supports and acknowledge the profound impact such events have on small communities.

🏘️ NW City Matters: Queensborough Speaks

The latest NW City Matters forum took place in Queensborough, and residents did not hold back.

Key themes raised included:

• Open ditches and infrastructure concerns
• Property tax pressures
• Traffic and transportation challenges
• Electricity bills
• A lack of amenities such as pools and arenas

A major concern discussed was the future of the Queensborough secondary school bus program, which is set to lose funding on June 30. The hosts note that a previous provincial commitment suggested the program would become permanent and free - something that has not materialized. With no high school planned for Queensborough, families are left with ongoing uncertainty.

💬 Online vs. In-Person Bullying: A Rare Moment of Common Ground

The podcast features two clips from a City Hall chamber discussion on bullying.

Councillor Nadine Nakagawa speaks about her experience attending the Stronger Cities initiative conference and addressing online bullying, while Councillor Fontaine responds by sharing his perspective on in-person bullying.

Despite political differences, the hosts observe that there was notable common ground between the two perspectives.

💰 Budget 2026: The Final Stretch

With Budget 2026 nearing completion, residents have but a few days left in the consultation phase to weigh in.

The hosts discuss how this budget effectively locks in a 30% property tax increase over four years, positioning New Westminster among the highest tax increases in Metro Vancouver during this council term.

They also look ahead:

What might change under a different council majority? And how would an NWP-led government approach affordability differently?

🎓 New Candidate Announcement: Anita Dunn

The episode introduces Anita Dunn, the newest NWP school board candidate.

Dunn, a former Columbia Street retail business owner and trained chartered accountant, recently announced her candidacy in front of supporters. As a parent of a secondary school student, she brings both professional financial expertise and firsthand education experience to the team.

📅 Looking Ahead

The hosts wrap up with a preview of:

• Family Day wishes to listeners
• An upcoming trip to Victoria (Feb 18–19) to meet with MLAs
• An upcoming exclusive interview with Nancy Jickels and Jennifer Mackie, co-chairs of the NWP campaign
• A February 17 fundraiser at Judge Begbie’s Tavern ($30 per person, limited tickets remaining)

Listeners are reminded that future NW City Matters events and campaign updates can be found at NWProgress.ca.

🎧 For the Record is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

📣 As the civic election season continues, now more than ever, local conversations matter.

Density Debates, Metro Accountability & Campaign Momentum

This week’s edition of For the Record features Ken Armstrong, Queensborough resident and NWP city council candidate, joining Paul Minhas as guest co-host while Daniel Fontaine is away. The episode tackles major planning decisions, regional accountability, and growing momentum as the civic campaign season ramps up.

🗳️ A New Guest Co-Host

The episode opens with Armstrong and Minhas previewing the topics ahead before Minhas briefly steps out, handing the reins to Armstrong to lead the discussion on one of the most consequential housing debates currently facing New Westminster.

🏘️ Townhouse Upzoning: A Major Shift for Neighbourhoods

Armstrong dives into the controversy surrounding Community First’s support for a sweeping upzoning plan, which would pre-zone roughly 900 single-family lots across New Westminster to allow:

• Townhouse development
• Six-storey residential buildings

The changes would apply primarily to the West End, Sapperton, and Glenbrook North, allowing development to proceed without public hearings.

The podcast features an excerpt from Councillor Paul Minhas’s remarks in council, raising concerns about neighbourhood impacts and the loss of local input. He also speaks to the lack of public amenities in our city and how a massive upzoning - without a plan for a new school or other critical infrastructure will prove challenging.

🏙️ Downtown Density & Political Irony

The discussion then turns to the downtown density public hearing, mandated by the Province of British Columbia. Armstrong highlights what he describes as political irony - noting that Mayor Patrick Johnstone, once critical of density targets being dictated from Victoria, is now not only supporting the downtown plan but also backing extensive townhouse upzoning city-wide.

Listeners hear a clip from Coun. Daniel Fontaine’s remarks in council, responding to both the provincial mandate and the city’s decision to go further than required. Fontaine asks Council why they simply don't just vote no and force Premier David Eby to implement his density plan from Victoria instead.

🏛️ Metro Vancouver Accountability Charter Gains Attention

Minhas rejoins Armstrong as the conversation shifts to the launch of the Metro Vancouver Accountability Charter, spearheaded by Councillor Daniel Fontaine and Richmond Councillor Kash Heed.

The charter, available at www.metroaccountability.ca, calls for stronger transparency, accountability, and governance reform at Metro Vancouver.

The hosts share coverage from Global News reporter Catherine Urquhart, followed by analysis of Fontaine and Heed’s appearance on The Simi Sara Show, where the initiative drew strong interest from both the host and listeners.

🎙️ Regional Pushback & Some Political Theatre

The podcast also reacts to Township of Langley Mayor Eric Woodward’s appearance on The Simi Sara Show, where he declined to sign the charter and appeared to take a jab at both Fontaine and host Simi Sara.

The moment sparked some on-air humour, including a memorable reference to a “word salad”, prompting lighthearted commentary from Armstrong and Minhas. Remarks from Port Coquitlam Mayor Brad West are also touched on as part of the broader regional debate.

Minhas confirms that Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim and Surrey mayoral candidate Linda Annis both signed the Charter this week.

🍔 Fundraisers, Forums & Campaign Momentum

In the final segment, Armstrong and Minhas highlight several upcoming NWP events, including:

• A Burger & Beer fundraiser at the Judge Begbie Tavern on Columbia Street
• The 4th Annual Spring Fundraiser at Taverna Greka, also on Columbia

Ticket sales for both events are reportedly strong, with expectations they will sell out.

They also promote the next NW City Matters community forum, taking place February 12 at the Queensborough Community Centre, beginning after 6:00 p.m. The open forum is part of the NWP’s listening tour and policy development process, with residents encouraged to attend and register in advance via the NWP website or Eventbrite.

The episode wraps with reflections on the start of door knocking for the campaign and the positive response being heard from residents across the city.

🎧 For the Record is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

📣 If you enjoy the podcast, please share it with friends, family, and neighbours — local conversations matter.

Metro Governance, the Pier That Never Returned & New Voices for 2026

This week’s edition of For the Record features Maryann Morrison, NWP council candidate, sitting in as guest co-host alongside Coun. Daniel Fontaine, as the podcast continues its deep dive into the issues shaping New Westminster’s 2026 civic election.

🏛️ Metro Vancouver Governance: Hope vs. Skepticism

The episode opens with a discussion on Metro Vancouver’s governance committee, which met this week to examine potential reforms to the region’s 41-member board.

Morrison expresses cautious optimism that meaningful change could still emerge, while Fontaine remains skeptical that the current structure will deliver real accountability or reform.

🌊 Pier Park: Five Years Later, Still No Plan

Attention then turns to Pier Park, which was destroyed by fire in 2020 and remains unrebuilt. The hosts discuss how a resurfaced Facebook post of the original Global News story sparked tens of thousands of views, underscoring ongoing public frustration.

For contrast, they highlight White Rock’s pier, where the mayor publicly committed to rebuilding within a year - successfully securing provincial and federal funding and reopening the pier to the public. The comparison raises questions about leadership, priorities, and follow-through in New Westminster.

🧑‍🎓 Youth Engagement: YNWP & the NW City Youth Forum

Fontaine and Morrison then discuss the newly launched Youth New Westminster Progressives (YNWP) initiative and the NW City Youth Forum, announced before a large crowd at the Inn at the Quay.

The forum aims to increase youth engagement at City Hall and encourage young voters to participate in the October 17 election, a topic both hosts agree is critical to the city’s democratic future.

🪶 Métis Representation at City Hall

The conversation also touches on a Métis cultural display at New Westminster City Hall. Both Fontaine and Morrison, who are Métis, share their appreciation for seeing Indigenous culture reflected in civic spaces - and reflect on how visibility and representation still matter in local government.

🎓 Exclusive Interviews: School Trustee Candidates

The second half of the episode features two exclusive sit-down interviews with New West Progressives school trustee candidates:

• Liz Fajber joins the podcast to discuss why she’s running, her priorities for public education, and takes part in a fun rapid-fire segment.
• Lucas Steele shares his vision for bringing a stronger youth voice to the school board and the broader NWP caucus if elected.

Both interviews offer listeners a chance to get to know the candidates beyond campaign literature, directly from the studio.

🎧 For the Record is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

📣 If you enjoy the podcast, please share it with friends, family, and neighbours — election-year conversations are just getting started.

Housing, Arts, Taxes & a Major Exclusive Interview

The first For the Record episode of 2026 sets the tone for an election year in New Westminster, with a packed program covering housing, affordability, culture, and the politics already shaping the campaign ahead.

🗳️ Welcome to 2026: Karima Budhwani Joins as Co-Host

The episode opens with a welcome to 2026, marking the start of a pivotal election year. Former NWP president and council candidate Karima Budhwani joins Daniel Fontaine and Paul Minhas as a guest co-host, offering her perspective on the issues that will dominate the months ahead.

🏠 Shelter Housing Project: 24/7 Funding & Heated Council Debate

The conversation begins with the latest debate over 24/7 funding for a shelter housing project, including a short clip from the council chamber. The discussion unpacks what was said, what wasn’t, and how housing policy could well become a key election issue.

🎭 Royal City Musical Theatre: Culture Meets Council

Listeners hear from New West resident Kat Palmer who appeared before council to speak about the RCMT's role in the community. The segment includes an excerpt from her presentation, followed by reaction and context. Massey Theatre reps welcomed to provide a counterpoint!

🏘️ Lookout Housing and Health Society: Presentation & Reaction

An excerpt from Lookout Housing Society’s five-minute council presentation is played, followed by analysis and commentary from the hosts. The hosts discuss the pivotal role former mayoral candidate and city councillor Chuck Puchmayr has played.

🙌 NWP Volunteer Appreciation & Candidate Announcements

Attention then turns to the NWP's Volunteer Appreciation event, taking place Sunday, where new trustee candidate announcements will also be made. The segment highlights the growing campaign momentum and the importance of volunteers as the election year begins in earnest.

💸 Mayor Brad West Calls Out New West Taxes on AM 730

A major regional moment is featured next, with a four-minute clip from the Mike Smyth Show, where Port Coquitlam Mayor Brad West publicly shames New Westminster’s tax levels.

The discussion zooms out to the broader issue of affordability and the reality that New Westminster is dealing with a 30%+ property tax increase over one council term - a key ballot question heading into 2026.

🎙️ Exclusive Interview: Mike McDonald

The centrepiece of the episode is an exclusive, in-depth interview with Mike McDonald, recorded separately. McDonald joins the show to share his views on the city, the election year ahead, and how a provincial election might unravel the best laid plans of civic politicians.

🎧 For the Record is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

📣 If you enjoy the podcast, please share it with friends, family, and neighbours — election-year conversations matter more than ever.

The annual Top 10 “For the Record” Vodcast has arrived - and this year’s countdown is packed with some of the biggest civic and political moments New Westminster has seen all year.

Hosted by Coun. Daniel Fontaine and Coun. Paul Minhas, this special episode looks back at the stories that sparked debate, packed council chambers, dominated headlines, and shaped the conversation across the city in 2025.

👀 What made the list?

Without giving away the rankings, listeners will hear about:

• Major property tax and affordability debates
• High-profile bike lane and traffic controversies
• How many petitions were needed for change
• Neighbourhood issues that wouldn’t go away
• Political moments that signaled change heading into 2026

Some stories will surprise you. Others you’ll absolutely expect. And a few may spark a “how did that rank higher than this?” conversation.

🎧 The Top 10 Vodcast is available now as both a video and audio podcast on:

• Spotify
• Apple Podcasts
• YouTube
• All major platforms

💬 Watch, listen, and then tell us — what would your #1 have been?

👉 Share this post with friends, neighbours, and fellow New West watchers — the debate is half the fun.

Two Exclusive NWP Candidate Interviews, Budget Battles & a Heated Council Moment

This week’s episode of For the Record with Daniel Fontaine and Paul Minhas features two exclusive interviews, a deep dive into the 2026 budget debate, and a preview of the much-anticipated Top 10 New West Political Stories vodcast.

🗳️ Exclusive Interview: Karima Budhwani

The episode opens with an in-depth, exclusive conversation between Daniel Fontaine and Karima Budhwani - former NWP president and past council candidate.

Karima discusses:

• Why she has decided to run again
• The issues she’s most passionate about in New Westminster
• Her perspective on community leadership and the road to the 2026 civic election

It’s a thoughtful and candid discussion about values, priorities, and the future of the city.

🗳️ Exclusive Interview: Rick Folka

Next, Fontaine sits down with Rick Folka, another newly announced council candidate who also ran in the 2022 civic election.

Rick shares:

• What motivated him to put his name forward again in 2026
• The challenges he sees facing New Westminster
• What excites him about the upcoming campaign and community engagement

💰 Budget 2026: Cutting $1.5M to Ease the Tax Burden

The conversation then turns to the 2026 budget, where Councillors Fontaine and Minhas introduce a motion to trim $1.5 million from city spending in an effort to ease what is shaping up to be a record property tax increase.

New Westminster is now on track to potentially hold the highest cumulative property tax increase in Metro Vancouver over a four-year term - exceeding 30%.

🔥 Mayor’s Council Outburst

The podcast features an excerpt from a heated moment at City Hall, where Mayor Patrick Johnstone falsely but publicly accuses Daniel Fontaine of lying about tax increases. The exchange is played in full, allowing listeners to hear exactly what was said on the council floor.

🔟 Top 10 New West Stories Vodcast Preview

To close the episode, Fontaine and Minhas preview their annual Top 10 Civic & Political Stories vodcast, recorded once a year.

Stories likely to make the list include:

• The London Street bike lane controversy
• Safety upgrades at 6th Avenue & 2nd Street
• Nearly 30% property tax increases over four years
• Costco traffic chaos in Queensborough
• Liberal Jake Sawatzky defeating NDP Peter Julian in the federal election

🎧 For the Record is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

📣 If you enjoy the podcast, please share this episode with friends, family, and neighbours — community conversations matter.

Police Budget Drama, Parking Battles, Flashlights at City Hall & a 30% Tax Increase?

This week’s For the Record features a festive pre-Christmas theme - but the topics are anything but quiet.

🚔 1. Police Budget Passes 5–1: A Closer Look

The episode opens with a detailed breakdown of the 2025 NW Police Department budget vote. The budget passed 5–1, but had Councillors Fontaine and Minhas voted no, the result would have been a 3–3 tie - meaning the police budget would have failed, as Councillor Ruby Campbell was not present.

The podcast shares:

• 🎙️ Coun. Nakagawa’s remarks, after she voted against the budget
• 🎙️ Mayor Johnstone’s comments claiming he has always supported police budgets
• 👮 The Chief of Police’s concerns about a decade of underfunding

With policing as the largest line item in the city budget, the discussion raises important questions about priorities and public safety.

🚗 2. “Zach Is Back”: Parking Chaos on 13th Street

Listeners hear a compelling five-minute presentation from Danielle and Zach, landlords who renovated their apartment building at 13th Street and 7th Avenue.

They request more time to meet the city’s compliance deadlines and highlight the severe impact of losing up to 50% of on-street parking, which would directly affect their tenants.

Both councillors note that Fontaine, Minhas, Campbell, and the Mayor visited the building to see conditions firsthand. The saga continues - and the podcast is following closely.

🔦 3. Queen’s Park Consultation… Bring a Flashlight?

What do a flashlight, winter coat, and umbrella have in common?

According to Gail North, President of the Queen’s Park Residents’ Association - they might have been needed at a recent city consultation event.

Held outdoors on the porch of Irving House between 3–5 PM, the session grew darker by the minute as the sun set at 4:19 PM. Space was limited, some residents stood outside, and the setup left many puzzled.

Fontaine has requested clarity from staff on whether porch consultations are considered “standard practice.”

💸 4. Operating Budget = 5.6% Tax Increase (and Nearly 30% in Four Years)

The city’s operating budget now comes in at:

• 4.6% base increase, plus
• 1% capital levy

Total: 5.6% increase for 2025, bringing New Westminster to nearly 30% in cumulative tax increases over four years - likely the highest in Metro Vancouver during this term of council.

The discussion highlights affordability concerns for residents, seniors, families, and businesses.

🕰️ 5. Déjà Vu: Century House Hours Return… Again

Coun. Ruby Campbell is now proposing the reopening of Century House on Sundays - raising questions about:

• Who cut Sunday hours originally?
• Why have they not been restored until now?
• How does this relate to Fontaine’s earlier motion calling for a similar review back in 2023?

As the councillors note: It’s déjà vu all over again.

❄️ 6. ACORN Presents on Air Conditioner Access

ACORN advocates for a program enabling low-income residents to install air conditioners.

Fontaine reminds listeners that he previously proposed a $500 AC grant through the Electrical Utility - a low-barrier idea that was rejected after referral.

🎄 7. Around Town: Community Spirit on Full Display

This week’s “around town” segment features highlights from:

• The Sapperton Pensioners Hall Christmas Party
• The West End Residents Association meeting
• A business association gathering in Sapperton
• The Hyack Annual Christmas Event
• The launch of the new Freshet Newspaper, now printing citywide

🔟 8. Top 10 New West Stories Preview & Holiday Break

The popular “Top 10 New West Stories” vodcast is coming soon, and listeners are invited to help shape the list.

The podcast will take a short Christmas break after December 19, returning in early January.

🎧 For the Record is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

📢 If you enjoy the show, please share this episode with neighbours, friends, and family. Community engagement matters more than ever.

FIFA Funding Fight, NW City Matters Momentum & Queensborough Concerns

This week’s episode of For the Record with Councillor Daniel Fontaine and Councillor Paul Minhas dives into a major debate at City Hall, strong community engagement across New Westminster, and big updates affecting Queensborough and the school district.

⚽ FIFA Funding Showdown at City Hall

The episode opens with a deep dive into the heated debate over whether New Westminster should spend $320,000 of taxpayer money on local FIFA World Cup “activation” events and parties.

The initial motion, championed by the Mayor, failed 4–3, with two Community First councillors breaking ranks. A secondary motion later passed, but it could still cost taxpayers over $200,000.

To bring listeners the full picture, the podcast features:

🎥 A Global News story outlining the controversy

🎙️ Jill Bennett (AM 730) interviewing Daniel Fontaine on why he voted NO

🎙️ Jas Johal (AM 730) interviewing Paul Minhas about both his FIFA NO vote and the current 3.5% climate action tax

🏘️ NW City Matters: Another Packed House

The popular NW City Matters series continued this week in the West End / Connaught Heights neighbourhood, drawing 50+ residents for lively discussions on bike lanes, taxes, crime, road repair issues, and more.

The full NWP council team attended, including:

• Coun. Daniel Fontaine, Mayoral candidate
• Ken Armstrong, Council candidate
• Ray Porcellato, Council candidate
• Maryann Morrison, Council candidate
• Coun. Paul Minhas, Council candidate

Residents shared strong concerns and practical ideas and the energy behind NW City Matters continues to grow.

🚍 Queensborough Issues: School Bus + Costco Traffic

Two key issues affecting Queensborough residents are explored:

1. Conservative MLA Steve Kooner’s petition in the BC Legislature calling for dedicated school bus service in Queensborough - as promised by the NDP government in the last election.
2. Significant traffic impacts linked to the newly opened Costco Business Centre.

The podcast features MLA Kooner’s remarks in the Legislature and discusses what’s next for the community.

🎒 Leadership Change at the School Board

For the first time since being elected in 2018, NWP School Trustee Danielle Connelly has been chosen as Vice-Chair of the New Westminster School Board.

The episode breaks down the political dynamics behind the decision and what it may signal for the year ahead in the civic council campaign.

🎄 Upcoming Episodes & Operation IRV

As the podcast heads toward its annual Christmas break after December 19, Daniel and Paul preview the popular Top 10 Stories of the Year Vodcast and invite listeners to submit their own picks.

The episode closes with a community call-to-action:

💌 Operation IRV

Irv is a New Westminster veteran who turned 100 years old on November 13. Community members are encouraged to help reach the goal of sending 100 Christmas cards to Irv this holiday season.

🎧 For the Record is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

📢 Please share this week’s episode with friends, family, and neighbours as local engagement matters!

Downloading, New Taxes, Community Pushback & Two Big Candidate Announcements

This week’s episode of For the Record with Councillor Daniel Fontaine and Councillor Paul Minhas covers a packed list of major civic and regional issues affecting New Westminster residents.

🏛️ 1. “Downloading” Report Gets Voted Down

The episode opens with the story of the provincial downloading report initiated by the NWP.

City staff produced a framework to measure how much provincial and federal downloading is impacting New Westminster - but Community First councillors (all NDP-affiliated) voted it down 4–2.

As a result, the public may never get a clear picture how much NDP government cost-shifting is hitting municipal taxpayers.

🚗 2. New TransLink Taxes? Fontaine Responds on AM730

Popular AM 730 host Mike Smyth interviewed Daniel Fontaine about new tax ideas being floated by transit advocates - including:

• A new tax on cars
• A regional sales tax
• Additional fees for Metro Vancouver commuters

Fontaine discusses real alternatives that don’t involve piling more taxes onto already overburdened residents.

💧 3. Councillors Across Metro Vancouver Push Back

Six councillors from five cities issued a public call asking Premier David Eby to pause approval of the 10-year Metro Vancouver Liquid Waste Management Plan, citing poor consultation with member municipalities.

FTR features a CTV News story summarizing the concerns.

📣 4. Improving Communications at City Hall

Another NWP motion returned from staff - this one aimed at improving communications and engagement on major projects in New Westminster.

After years of hearing from residents frustrated with last-minute notices and weak consultation, the motion opens the door to stronger communication practices across the city.

🚘 5. Delegations of the Week: Parking Loss on 13th Street

Instead of "letters of the week," the podcast spotlights two impressive delegations:

• Danielle
• Zach

Both spoke passionately at City Hall about the impacts of parking loss on 13th Street, and the podcast shares clips from their presentations.

💙 6. NWP Fundraiser Sets New Record

The NWP’s November 20th fundraiser was the most successful in the organization’s history, showing strong momentum and community enthusiasm heading into 2026.

Fontaine and Minhas discuss what this means in the fight against the powerful District Labour Council (Community First) machine.

🏘️ 7. NW City Matters Forum – November 26

The next NW City Matters event is happening on November 26 at 726 12th Street.

Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in shaping New Westminster’s future.

🗳️ 8. Two New NWP Candidates Announced

FTR closes with some major political news:

• Ray Porcellato, General Manager of the Salmonbellies
• Maryann Morrison, Executive Director of the North Fraser Métis Association

Both have officially announced they are running for City Council under the NWP banner.

These strong additions significantly bolster the team - and two more council candidates and seven school board candidates are still to come.

🎧 For the Record is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

📢 If you enjoy the podcast, please share this post to help bring more community voices into the conversation.

Two Special Guests, City Matters Momentum & A Look at New West’s Rising Costs

Episode 103 of For the Record with Councillor Daniel Fontaine and Councillor Paul Minhas features two special in-studio guests and a deep dive into sports, community engagement, and the latest developments at City Hall.

🥍 Exclusive Interview: Salmonbellies GM Ray Porcellato

Councillor Minhas speaks with Ray Porcellato, the highly regarded and well-known general manager of the New Westminster Salmonbellies.

In the interview, Ray discusses:

• The team’s emotional and hard-fought run for the Mann Cup
• The state of local sport and recreation facilities in New Westminster
• What more can be done to support youth athletes across lacrosse, hockey, soccer, and more
• How investments in sport and recreation in New West can reduce crime in our city

Ray’s longstanding involvement in local sports gives this segment real depth and community insight.

👥 Exclusive Interview: Maryann Morrison: NW City Matters Update

Coun. Daniel Fontaine sits down for an interview with Maryann Morrison, volunteer chair of the NWP and facilitator for the new NW City Matters initiative.

A longtime Sapperton resident, Maryann shares:

• Her vision for City Matters
• What she heard from residents at the first Massey Victory Heights event
• Why neighbourhood-driven engagement will be vital in the months ahead

Her update offers listeners an inside look at how the initiative is evolving.

🎥 Interview Excerpt: Daniel & Daniel

This episode also includes an excerpt from Daniel Ampong’s vodcast, where the Columbia Street small-business owner sat down with Councillor Fontaine for a one-hour conversation.

Listeners will hear part of that interview - Daniel interviewing Daniel - offering a unique perspective from a local entrepreneur’s point of view.

🏛️ City Council Highlights: Rising Rates & a New New West Tax coming?

Fontaine and Minhas wrap up the episode with a quick review of recent council decisions, including:

• Large utility rate increases proposed over the next five years
• A new 1% capital levy (effectively an added tax) to help pay for a growing list of capital projects - some of which critics describe as mayoral “pet projects”

They outline what these financial changes could mean for residents and businesses.

🎧 For the Record is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

If you enjoy the show, please share it with friends, family, and neighbours to help expand the conversation across New Westminster.

Metro Mayhem, Budget Blows & Political Power Plays

In this week’s episode of For the Record with Daniel Fontaine and Paul Minhas, the discussion kicks off with a bold new proposal: a 2026 referendum on reforming Metro Vancouver. The idea? Ask voters whether they want to directly elect Metro board members and shrink the size of the board. A Global TV story on the release is featured, along with reflections on what real reform could look like.

🎧 The conversation continues with an excerpt from Jas Johal’s AM 730 show, where Daniel Fontaine discusses Metro Vancouver’s skyrocketing spending and how it's directly impacting property taxes - including a projected 30% increase in New Westminster over four years.

🏨 Tourism New West vs. Affordable Housing?

Questions were raised this week by Coun. Paul Minhas after it was revealed that Tourism New West funding was being redirected to an affordable housing reserve. He pressed for answers, especially after a presentation by Tourism New West Executive Director Gerardo Corro.

🪶 Acting Mayor Role Gets Political?

A seemingly minor request to "depoliticize" the acting mayor schedule during election season — raised by Coun. Nakagawa and supported by Coun. Campbell — sparked debate. The twist? Coun. Fontaine is scheduled to serve as acting mayor during the 2026 election. The podcast explores whether the discussion and request to staff itself is, ironically, politicizing the role.

💰 Federal Budget Breakdown

The 2025 federal budget dropped last week — so who came out ahead? Cities like White Rock, Surrey, and Victoria were named in the budget for key infrastructure investments. New Westminster? Not mentioned. What does that mean for the city moving forward?

🚶‍♀️ Queensborough Sidewalks: Election-Year Timing?

A new report looks at accelerating sidewalk construction in Queensborough, raising questions about the timing — just ahead of the 2026 election. Minhas asked staff for clarity on how priorities were set.

📅 Upcoming Events & Community Engagement

• 🕊️ Remembrance Day – November 11 at City Hall (3rd largest event in B.C.)
• 🏘️ Next NW City Matters: November 26 in Connaught Heights / West End
• ✅ Recap: The November 6 event in Massey Victory Heights was a tremendous success.

🎧 For the Record is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

📣 If you enjoy the show, please share with friends, family, and neighbours — growing the audience helps amplify the conversation in New Westminster!

Leith let's us know about the new and popular chili contest that takes place now in the fall. His special chili recipe made to the top of the heap!

Also on deck is a discussion of the upcoming Remembrance Day ceremonies and the important initiative to establish a new "Lest We Forget" crosswalk in the Royal City. Leith talks about how you don't need a membership to visit the Legion and how all the proceeds of poppy sales in New West stay in our city.

It's a captivating interview with an amazing veteran who has contributed so much to our country. You'll definitely want to listen to the end for the special book presentation Leith makes to Coun. Minhas. If you want to support the Legion and our veterans, consider putting up a poppy box at your business establishment or make sure to donate generously when you pick up a poppy. If you want to have a poppy box at your establishment in New West please call the Legion at 604-524-1511.

It’s Halloween week and this episode starts with a spooky soundtrack and an even scarier topic: Budget 2026.

👻 Budget 2026 – Trick or Tax?

With a potential 7% property tax increase, and the prospect of more than 30% in total hikes over four years under the current Community First majority, Daniel and Paul refer to this budget as one of the scariest things in New Westminster. Paul’s motion to explore a 0% and 2.5% increase was voted down by Community First, leaving taxpayers bracing for another costly year.

🏘️ NW City Matters Launch

The New West Progressives are launching a major community engagement effort - starting with their first town hall on Nov. 6 (6:30–8 p.m.) at Mount Zion Lutheran Church. Daniel and Paul explain how this series of town halls, surveys, and neighbourhood canvasses will help shape the NWP’s 2026 election platform.

🎖️ Exclusive Interview: Terry Leith, Royal Canadian Legion Branch #2

Past President Terry Leith joins the podcast to discuss the Poppy Campaign, what defines a veteran, and how the Legion is modernizing its outreach. He reminds listeners that everyone is welcome at the Legion - membership not required - and encourages New Westminster residents to wear their poppies proudly through Remembrance Day. If you want to have a poppy box at your establishment in New West call the Legion at 604-524-1511.

🚓 Chamber of Commerce Panel – Chief Paul Hyland on Stigmatization

Daniel and Paul reflect on comments made by Chief Hyland, who said stigmatization can play a positive role in curbing harmful behaviours - from drunk driving to public illicit drug use - and that the NDP government's decriminalization experiment has failed.

💌 Letter of the Week

This week features two letters - one about the 7th Street bike lane, and another from a listener outside New Westminster who praised Daniel for his ongoing accountability work on Metro Vancouver issues.

🎧 Tune in now for thoughtful discussion, accountability, and community voices - available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

In this wide ranging interview FTR co-host Daniel Fontaine asks Ken about why he's running and discusses how this could be history in the making if Armstrong makes it on council. He would be the first elected official in the history of New West to come from Queensborough.

Ken talks about his link to amateur sport including both soccer and baseball. He also discusses why the infrastructure deficit in New Westminster has gotten so much worse under Mayor Patrick Johnstone and Community First's leadership.

Have a listen to this interview and be sure to share it widely with friends, family and your colleagues! If you want to support Ken, please visit www.nwprogress.ca to learn more.

A major milestone episode! This week, For the Record celebrates its 100th show with big announcements and exclusive interviews.

✅ Metro Matters – Daniel and Paul kick things off with a look at Metro Vancouver’s ballooning budgets and growing public concern. With clips from both CTV and CBC, they break down what’s really behind the rising costs — and Metro’s efforts to manage the optics.

✅ Paul Minhas Announces His Re-Election Campaign – Co-host and City Councillor Paul Minhas confirms he’ll seek another term with the New West Progressives (NWP). Paul shares why he’s running again and what drives his commitment to New Westminster.

✅ Exclusive Interview: Ken Armstrong Joins the Race – Former NWP mayoral candidate Ken Armstrong returns to the political arena — this time running for council. A lawyer and Queensborough resident, Ken could make history as the first councillor ever elected from Queensborough.

✅ Letter of the Week – This week’s featured letter focuses on the ongoing Woodward’s Building controversy — and what residents want to see happen next.

✅ Coming Next Week – Terry Leith, past president of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 2, joins the podcast to discuss the upcoming Poppy Campaign and how the Legion supports local veterans.

🎙️ Tune in to For the Record with Daniel Fontaine & Paul Minhas — available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

It’s officially the one-year countdown to the next civic election in New Westminster — and this week’s episode has a great segment on what the next 12 months could bring.

✅ 365 Days to Go – With the civic election set for October 17, 2026, Daniel and Paul look ahead to what’s coming. From record tax hikes to “mushroom walls,” rewilded boulevards, and controversial bike lanes, they explore the issues likely to shape the race.

✅ Early Declarations – Across Metro Vancouver, politicians are already making moves — from Surrey’s Linda Annis to Coquitlam’s Craig Hodge — as media outlets like CBC, The Tyee, and CityNews spotlight the growing buzz.

✅ Introducing: NW City Matters – The New West Progressives (NWP) are launching a new grassroots engagement series featuring town halls, online surveys, and neighbourhood outreach. The goal: gather real community input to shape the 2026 campaign platform.

✅ Woodward's Building Update – Residents return to Council over the new bus stop, lost loading zone, and HandyDART access. They’re asking the City to move the stop 50 feet north — and they’re not backing down.

✅ Uptown vs Downtown Vibes – The hosts discuss how both areas are faring, the need to revitalize commercial districts, and why New Westminster should be doing more to bring patios and activity back to Uptown.

✅ 7th Street Bike Lane Construction – Tempers flare as construction begins. Daniel and Paul urge residents to remember: the workers aren’t to blame — it’s a political decision made by Council.

✅ New Segment: Letter of the Week – A fresh addition to the podcast! Each week, a standout letter, email, or text from listeners will be featured to spark debate and dialogue.

✅ Upcoming NWP Event – Don’t miss the October 23rd Boathouse Restaurant fundraiser, featuring two newly announced NWP council candidates. Both will join next week’s For the Record for an exclusive sit-down interview.

👉 For the Record with Daniel Fontaine & Paul Minhas is available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

Popular host Vijay Saini also asks about Metro Vancouver and what more can be done to further control spending. Is an elected Board of Directors the answer - or not?

Saini told his listening audience "...I find you [Fontaine] to be one of those councillors who focuses not just simply on your city in which you are a council member. Your ideas and your commentary has a wide-ranging impact on the region itself."

This week’s episode dives into pay, perks, politics, and plenty of lively debate from inside and outside City Hall:

✅ Pay, Perks & Pensions – A new report recommends big increases to elected officials’ compensation — including raising the Mayor’s travel allowance from $200 to $850/month and doubling the Acting Mayor stipend. Daniel joins The Mike Smyth Show (AM 730) to discuss the issue and listener reactions.

✅ Metro Vancouver & Vape Shops – A segment from Daniel’s Connect FM radio interview dives into Metro governance and the growing push to limit vape stores in local communities.

✅ Canada Post at City Hall? – An emergency motion to debate national postal issues sparks questions — and laughs — about what’s actually municipal business.

✅ Woodward’s Sidewalk Redesign – Residents at 6th & 6th speak out against accessibility changes. Hear Woodward Building Strata President Liz Faber’s full presentation to Council.

✅ Grants Going Up – Civic grants are set to rise by 50% — just in time for an election year. Daniel and Paul unpack the political optics and one surprising twist affecting multi-year recipients.

✅ London Street Bike Lane – It’s official: the project is moving ahead after a divided vote, despite ongoing opposition from some residents.

✅ Police Board & Budget Pressures – With nearly 30% property tax hikes this term, Council debates underfunding, responsibility, and rising policing costs.

✅ Liquid Waste Management Plan – A split Council vote makes New Westminster one of the few municipalities opposing Metro Vancouver’s LWMP until an independent wastewater review is complete.

✅ E-Scooters – Thanks to an NWP motion, enforcement will now join education in cracking down on illegal scooter use.

🎟️ Upcoming Event – Don’t miss the NWP fundraiser at The Boathouse Restaurant on Oct 23. Details at nwprogress.ca or Eventbrite.

🎵 Plus — a perfect closer: Twisted Sister wraps up the episode in fitting fashion.

👉 Listen to For the Record with Daniel Fontaine & Paul Minhas now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform.

This week’s episode dives into some of the most debated issues at New Westminster City Hall and beyond:

✅ Council Compensation Report – A proposal goes to Council Oct 6 to raise the Mayor’s car (aka transportation) allowance from $200 to $830/month, double the Acting Mayor stipend, and triple Councillor transportation allowances. Daniel’s amendments to the curbside management report — impose maximum free 2-hour parking at City Hall and ending automatic stipends — were voted down.

✅ Remembrance Day Crosswalks – Terry Leith, President of the No. 2 Royal Canadian Legion, urged Council to follow Richmond and Maple Ridge in honoring veterans with “Lest We Forget” crosswalks.

✅ Commercial Rent Caps – While a motion went to UBCM, Daniel and Paul highlight how steep property tax hikes in New West have already fueled rising commercial rents for small businesses.

✅ Vape Store Restrictions – A motion to limit the number and location of vape shops passed at UBCM and could soon influence provincial policy.

✅ London Street Bike Lane – Staff scaled back proposed parking cuts from 39% to 9% — a significant shift for residents. Fontaine and Minhas invite community feedback ahead of the Oct 6 report.

✅ Woodward’s Building Concerns – Seniors voiced frustration over lost loading zones and bus stop changes at a Strata Town Hall, raising questions about consultation and accessibility.

✅ Looking Ahead – NWP fundraiser Oct 23 will feature mayoral candidate Daniel Fontaine and the announcement of two new NWP council candidates.

👉 Listen to For the Record with Daniel Fontaine & Paul Minhas now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform.

Special Co-Host: Kathleen Carlsen, NWP School Trustee

This week’s episode brings school board insights, city debates, and provincial politics to the table:

✅ School Board Roundup – Trustee Kathleen Carlsen joins to discuss the five-block system at NWSS and the growing reliance on portables in the district, including a clip from NWP Trustee Danielle Connelly on her concerns.

✅ Woodward's Building Concerns – Seniors at 6th & 6th are losing both their loading zone and direct HandyDART access, raising serious accessibility questions.

✅ Metro Vancouver Under Fire – BC Conservative leader John Rustad told UBCM delegates that, if elected, his party would scrap Metro Vancouver and replace it with a utility. What could that look like?

✅ Heritage Commission Issues – A debate over heritage lamp standards in Massey Victory Heights, plus Daniel’s upcoming motion to expand the commission’s mandate.

✅ Candidate Spotlight – Kathleen turns interviewer, asking Daniel about his run for mayor under the NWP banner and the issues he plans to champion.

✅ Community Events – Highlights from the Massey Victory Heights Residents Association and the Quayside Residents’ Connect at the Quay gathering.

👉 Listen to For the Record with Daniel Fontaine & Paul Minhas now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform.

This week’s episode covers a wide range of hot topics coming out of New Westminster’s special Queensborough council meeting and beyond:

✅ Seniors’ Discount on Solid Waste & Recycling – How can more seniors access the 25% discount available on solid waste and recycling pickup fees?

✅ Budget 2026 – Staff presented scenarios of 4–5% tax hikes. Council unanimously supported a NWP motion to also model 0% and 2.5% increases.

✅ Q2Q Ferry Fare Hikes – Staff proposed raising some fares by up to 20%. Thanks to a NWP motion Council capped concession fares at inflation, but regular fares will still rise by 11% in 2026.

✅ Public Delegations – Brow of the Hill resident Terence Poirier raised concerns about the 7th Street bike lane, while Queensborough resident Amit Ajmera questioned a $275,000 digital sign project and highlighted community safety issues.

✅ Media Roundup – Featuring Daniel’s interviews on AM 730 with Mike Smyth (Metro Vancouver salaries & spending) and Simi Sara (campaign launch).

✅ Running for Mayor – Daniel reflects on the Sept 18th campaign launch, where 350 supporters turned out to kick off a 12-month race for change in New Westminster.

👉 Listen to For the Record with Daniel Fontaine & Paul Minhas now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform.

Vape Shops, Housing Debates & A Big Change at Metro Vancouver?

This week on For the Record with Daniel Fontaine and Paul Minhas, they're covering everything from vape shop regulations to political shake-ups and lacrosse fever. Let’s dive in:

🚭 Vape Shop Limits: A Motion Goes Provincial

They open with coverage from Global BC’s Grace Ke and CKNW’s Robin Gill, featuring a motion initially brought forward by Coun. Daniel Fontaine to limit the number and location of vape shops in New Westminster — especially near schools. Thanks to an amendment by Coun. Tasha Henderson, that local motion is now on its way to the Union of BC Municipalities for province-wide debate.

🚱 Eby Says No to Wastewater Review

Premier David Eby quietly signaled—via letter—that the province will not review the $4 billion North Shore wastewater treatment plant debacle. They feature clips from Global’s Catherine Urquhart and News 1130, and ask: Why the lack of oversight?

🪶 Historic Moment at Council

Daniel Fontaine reflects on his role as acting mayor and chair of this week’s council workshop — marking the first time someone of Indigenous heritage has chaired a New West council meeting. Coun. Paul Minhas shares his pride in being part of this milestone.

🏠 Aunt Leah’s Place: Setting the Record Straight

Despite a recent misleading social media post, both Fontaine and Minhas have supported this important housing project for youth and moms — including most importantly when it came for 1st, 2nd and 3rd reading at Council.

☕ Councillor Cafés: Wrapping Up, Reimagining Ahead

After hosting over 14 Councillor Cafés across the city, this community engagement format is wrapping up — but stay tuned for a new version, set to be unveiled at the NWP’s mayoral announcement on September 18.

🏗️ Housing Policy Split at Council

The Community First slate showed a few cracks this week. While some members supported raising inclusionary housing targets to 10% in high-rises, Mayor Johnstone and Coun. Campbell opposed it. The final vote? 5–2 in favour, with Fontaine and Minhas siding with the more ambitious policy.

🎉 Recovery Day Success & Lacrosse Buzz

More than 40,000 people attended Recovery Day in New West — and NWP was proud to be there. Meanwhile, the Salmonbellies are on fire as they chase the Mann Cup. The whole city is saying: Go Bellies Go!

🔥 Late-Breaking News: Metro Vancouver Shake-Up?

Public, media, and political pressure may finally be paying off. Metro Vancouver’s board could soon shrink dramatically, if Premier Eby and the NDP act before the next civic election. FTR unpacks what this could mean.

🍔 North Fraser Métis BBQ & Property Tax Projections

Fontaine, Minhas and the full NWP caucus attended this great community event. Plus, they touch on a new report suggesting a 5–6% property tax increase in the final year of this council’s term.

🎧 For the Record is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 If you enjoy the podcast, share it with your friends, family, and colleagues — every share helps grow our local audience!

Code of Conduct, Cheeseburgers & Crickets from Eby

In this week’s episode of For the Record with Daniel Fontaine and Paul Minhas, we're digging into everything from political accountability to… free McDonald's burgers? 🍔

🧑‍⚖️ Should Civic Politicians Follow a Provincial Code of Conduct?

Daniel Fontaine joined guest host Robin Gill on The Jas Johal Show (AM 730) to discuss how New Westminster’s mayor breached the city’s Code of Conduct Bylaw — and why not every city has one. Should the province step in and make it mandatory?

💬 Addiction, Homelessness & Hope

We share a compelling excerpt from Episode 92, featuring Jeremy Cross, author of “Finding My Lost Life.” His personal story of addiction and recovery is both sobering and inspiring.

💡 Lighting Controversy in Massey Victory Heights

What started as a simple plan to replace heritage lamp standards has sparked major pushback. Nearly 100 residents packed a city workshop — and things got heated.

🍟 Mayor McCheese?

A Global News investigation reveals that Richmond’s Mayor Malcolm Brodie approved free McDonald’s cheeseburgers after staff had already attended an all-you-can-eat Christmas dinner. This story is part of a growing concern about overspending and poor oversight at City Hall.

🧍‍♂️ Where’s Premier Eby?

It’s been more than 40 days since Metro Vancouver killed the independent review into the $4B wastewater treatment plant fiasco. Premier David Eby once promised to step in — but now? Silence.

📋 Council Recap: Speed Humps, Legacy Orgs & More

The August 25th New West Council meeting was packed. We break down motions and debates, including:

• Reviewing the city’s speed hump policy
• Designating legacy organizations
• Proposing a 50% increase to the community grants program

📆 What’s Ahead: Recovery Day & Mayoral Announcement

• Sept 7: Join us at Recovery Day in downtown New West
• Sept 18: Get ready — NWP’s new mayoral candidate will be announced!
• Oh, and the Salmonbellies are packing Queen’s Park Arena — can they bring home the Mann Cup? (No predictions… just Go Bellies Go!)

🎙️ For the Record is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 If you enjoy the podcast, share it with friends and family — help us grow the conversation in New West and beyond!

This week, For the Record features a powerful and deeply personal conversation with Jeremy Cross, author of the memoir “Finding My Lost Life: The Fall to Addiction, The Rise to Recovery.”

Jeremy’s story is raw, real, and ultimately hopeful — a first-hand account of how drug addiction took hold of his life, and how he found the strength to reclaim it. He shares what led him down the path of substance use, the moment that changed everything, and how time behind bars became an unexpected turning point.

The conversation also explores:

• Life in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside during his years of addiction
• His reflections on New Westminster’s supervised injection site
• Advice for politicians who overlook the concerns of local residents and business owners affected by nearby drug use

🎤 This exclusive interview was recorded ahead of Recovery Day, taking place in New Westminster on Sunday, September 7 — an annual event that celebrates recovery and brings awareness to addiction issues.

If this episode resonates with you, please share it with your friends and family. For the Record is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

To learn more about Jeremy Cross, visit 👉 www.jeremycross.ca

His book is available now on Amazon.

This week’s episode is packed with hot topics you won’t want to miss:

✅ Aug 25th Council Meeting Preview – A jam-packed agenda! Council will debate whether to provide multi-year funding for long-standing local non-profits and whether to boost community grant funding by 2026 — conveniently, an election year.

✅ Metro Vancouver at the PNE – Nearly $450,000 of your tax dollars spent on popcorn, giveaways, and even a $2,000 e-bike at their infamous “pee and poo” booth. You can’t make this up!

✅ Media Spotlight – Daniel joined The Jas Johal Show to talk Metro’s PNE presence. Plus, shout-outs from Robin Gill and Bill Tieleman for holding Metro accountable.

✅ Reddit Rumours – Is Fontaine pushing for Metro privatization? Nope. We debunk the latest political conspiracy floating around online.

✅ Summer Recap & What’s Ahead – From Queensborough Children’s Festival to Pride and Fridays on Front, NWP’s booth has been everywhere this summer. Looking forward: Sept 18th brings the big NWP mayoral candidate announcement (tickets moving fast!).

✅ Coming Soon – Author Jeremy Cross joins us in early September to share a different perspective on supervised injection sites. That episode will kick off our return to a weekly format.

👉 Make sure to follow For the Record with Daniel Fontaine & Paul Minhas on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms — and share with family and friends to help spread the word!

Coun. Daniel Fontaine flies solo this week as Coun. Paul Minhas is away on holiday — but there’s no shortage of hot topics to dig into on this episode of For the Record.

🚫 Metro Vancouver: Transparency on Trial?

We start with the bombshell decision by Metro Vancouver directors to halt an independent review into the disastrous North Shore wastewater treatment project. Once pegged at $700M, the project’s price tag has exploded to nearly $4B — and now, thanks to a behind-closed-doors vote, the public may have to wait until 2027 (after the court case wraps) for answers. Is this move a step toward accountability — or just more damage to Metro’s already fragile credibility?

🎙️ Media Reactions: CBC, CKNW & Global Speak Out

This episode features commentary and coverage from top media outlets:

• CBC Early Edition host Stephen Quinn chats with Daniel Fontaine
• Jas Johal of AM 730 weighs in with his own pointed take
• Global BC rounds it out with a full story featuring Fontaine himself

🍽️ Bistro 511: A Costly Café or a Bottomless Pit?

Global TV is shining a light on Bistro 511, the little-known 'cafeteria' tucked away in the basement of city hall. Used mainly by city staff, the bistro has cost taxpayers over $360,000 in subsidies over the past three years — and it continues to run a deficit. We unpack the findings and ask: Is this really the best use of public money?

🏚️ New West Ranks #2 in Homelessness

According to the latest homeless count, New Westminster now has the second highest per capita homelessness rate in Metro Vancouver. With a local MLA in Cabinet and another serving as Speaker of the Legislature, why do the numbers keep rising — and could new provincial mental health, housing, or treatment investments make a difference? If so, what's taking so long?

🌈 NWP Summer Circuit & a Mayoral Reveal on the Horizon

The NWP have been making the rounds this summer — including stops at the New West Farmer’s Market, Fridays on Front, and the upcoming Pride Festival on August 16.

📅 Mark your calendar: On September 18, NWP will make a major announcement — unveiling their new candidate for Mayor of New Westminster.

🍔 In the meantime, join the crew for the next Burger & Beer Fundraiser at Kelly O’Bryan’s on August 19!

🎧 For the Record is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Enjoying the show? Share it with your friends, family, and neighbours — word of mouth helps keep local conversations alive.

After a two-week break, For the Record with Daniel Fontaine and Paul Minhas is back — and packed with everything you’ve missed (and then some). From billion-dollar blunders to e-scooter injuries and a potential NWP mayoral announcement, this 60-minute episode is stacked with stories making waves in New Westminster and beyond.

💰 Metro Vancouver’s $4 Billion Wastewater Mess

We kick things off with breaking news from Metro Vancouver, where officials have abruptly hit pause on an independent review into the North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant fiasco. Once a $700M project, the cost has ballooned to nearly $4 billion — and now the public may never get the answers they were promised. Why the silence?

🛑 Downtown Disorder: Global News Hits the Streets

A new three-part series by Global BC puts a spotlight on crime and public disorder in downtown New West. Small business owners share how rising incidents are affecting their livelihoods — while some local Community First politicians insist the stats show things aren't that bad. So, what’s the reality on the ground?

🛴 E-Scooters & Flag Swaps: On The Mike Smyth Show

Daniel Fontaine joined The Mike Smyth Show to discuss the surge in e-scooter injuries reported by the Canadian Institute for Health Information. Are Canadian cities doing enough to protect riders and pedestrians alike? And what’s the real story behind the U.S. flag being finally being removed from Queen’s Park Arena?

🗞️ Saving Local News: Who’s Really Behind the $100K Ask?

A new campaign titled “Save Our Local News” is aiming to raise $100,000 to launch a community newspaper this fall. But questions are surfacing: Who’s behind it? What’s Unifor’s role? And who is the Union Cooperative Initiative that’s supporting the drive? Veteran reporter Theresa McManus presented the pitch at city council — but not everyone is sold.

🏛️ Cabinet Shuffle: Christine Boyle Takes Over Municipal Affairs

BC’s new Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Christine Boyle, brings close ties to Premier David Eby and a track record of hard left politics. Will she push for overdue reforms at Metro Vancouver? Or will it be more of the same under a different name?

📣 Big NWP Announcement Coming September 18

Mark your calendars. Coun. Paul Minhas teases a major announcement that could shake up the 2026 municipal election. Could this be the moment New Westminster’s mayoral race officially kicks off?

☕ The Future of Councillor Cafés

With the election countdown beginning, what’s next for the ever-popular Councillor Cafés? Will they continue into the campaign period, or be shelved until after votes are cast?

🎙️ All this and more on a special summer edition of For the Record.

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There’s no shortage of hot topics on this week’s For the Record — from public safety and civic engagement to bike lanes, bus shelters, and a rare public apology.

🏞️ Pier Park Patrols: $400K Security Boost Proposed

We kick off with the future of New Westminster’s waterfront. A new city staff report recommends nearly $400,000 in added foot patrols and security upgrades at Westminster Pier Park — a response to over $460,000 in damages reported in just 18 months. We share coverage from Global BC and a recent AM 730 Jill Bennett Show interview to dive deeper into what this means for park users and taxpayers.

🚨 Crisis Response Pilot Extended (Until After the Election)

Originally slated to wrap by August 2026, the city’s Crisis Response Pilot Project — aimed at reducing public disorder downtown — has now been extended to December 31, 2026, leaving the next city council to decide its future. We explore what’s at stake and why the timeline shift matters.

🔇 Quiet Zones: Do You Live in One?

Many New West residents don’t realize they already live in a designated quiet zone. Now, council is directing staff to map them out and explore more aggressive steps to tackle vehicular noise pollution city-wide.

🗣️ 10 Delegations, 1 Packed Council Meeting

Monday’s council meeting saw a full lineup of speakers, including:

• Newly elected MP Jake Sawatzky, promising better intergovernmental collaboration and announcing a move to Uptown
• Three residents speaking out against the London Street bike lane, citing a lack of consultation and flawed engagement
• A May Day celebration advocate, backing a motion by Coun. Paul Minhas to better support legacy organizations in the community grants process

🏳️‍🌈 Pride Week 2025 Announced

The Mayor has proclaimed August 7–17 as Pride Week in New Westminster. The NWP elector organization will host a booth — and all four caucus members plan to be there to meet residents.

🚌 Holy Micromanagement, Batman!

That’s the phrase that kicked off a spicy debate over a motion from Coun. Nadine Nakagawa to secure funding for three new bus shelters. The number was arbitrary, the priorities named — prompting a flashback to her own earlier critique of “micromanagement” on council.

🙏 An On-Air Apology

Daniel Fontaine closes out the show by addressing his recent public apology to New West residents after an outburst in council where he referred to a comment from the Mayor as a “cheap shot.” He reflects on why the remark violated council’s procedures — and how he plans to do better.

🎙️ If you're enjoying the podcast, don't forget to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Amazon — and help spread the word by sharing with friends and family. Your support helps keep the conversation going in New Westminster!

In Episode 87 of For the Record with Daniel Fontaine and Paul Minhas, the hosts dive into a range of timely and thought-provoking civic issues.

The episode kicks off with a look at how much Metro Vancouver mayors are earning 💰—including base salaries, per diems, and expense claims. With all the 2024 Statements of Financial Information (SOFI) now released, the numbers are in: Richmond Mayor Malcolm Brodie tops the list at a whopping $397,000 🥇. Close behind are Burnaby Mayor Mike Hurley and Port Coquitlam Mayor Brad West, each bringing in over $350,000 🥈🥉. Could these paycheques finally lead to provincial salary caps by 2026? 🧐

Next, the hosts preview the July 7th regular council meeting in New Westminster—already being dubbed the “Mother of All Meetings” 🗂️ due to its packed agenda. One highlight: a new report revealing consolidated pay figures for all elected officials. Finally, residents can see what their local politicians earn in one place 👀.

Also on the docket:

• The Crisis Response Team pilot project is seeking an extension through 2025 🚨. Council will consider requesting additional funding from senior levels of government. If that fails, local taxpayers may be left footing the bill 💸.
• Has funding for Hyack and May Day really gone up over the past 10 years, as one Community First councillor claimed? 🤔 The staff report is in—and the numbers may surprise you 📊.

Several councillor motions are also up for debate, including:

• Creating quiet zones 🛑
• Adding more bus shelters 🚏 and speed bumps 🛞
• Funding support for legacy non-profits 🤝
• Connecting the downtown and Sapperton riverfronts 🌊🏙️

We also share with you an interview with AM 730 host Jas Johal. Simi Sara and Vancouver Sun columnist call Daniel Fontaine 'a renegade' - find out why. Listen to a Global TV story on the Metro Mayor pay scales for 2024. Lastly, we'll play you a clip of a flip flop by Metro Vancouver Chair Hurley who did a 180 on the need for a salary cap.

If you enjoy For the Record, don’t forget to share it with friends, family, and colleagues! 💬

Follow and listen on Spotify, Amazon Music, and Apple Podcasts 🎧📱.

In this special Canada Day edition of For the Record, Daniel Fontaine and Paul Minhas dive into the biggest issues stirring conversation in New Westminster right now—affecting residents, local businesses, and city hall.

🚨 Supervised Drug Site Sparks Heated Debate

The proposed extension of a temporary permit for the downtown supervised drug consumption site has ignited a much livelier debate than when it was first approved back in March 2021. Why the shift in tone—and what does it signal for future decisions?

💸 Mayors Making Nearly $400K?

Some Metro Vancouver mayors are pulling in eye-popping salaries. Burnaby's Mike Hurley and Richmond’s Malcolm Brodie top the list—earning almost $400,000 a year. Should mayoral salaries be capped at the same level as a B.C. Cabinet minister? We weigh the options, including recommendations from a recent Deloitte governance review.

🌡️ Too Hot to Learn? AC in Portables Under Review

City council is now asking its legal department to explore whether a new bylaw could require local schools to install air conditioning in portables. With students and teachers sweating through heat waves, is this a step toward cooler classrooms—or government overreach?

💡 Heritage Lamp Standards: Saved, Then Scrapped?

Just when it looked like the historic Massey Victory Heights lamp posts may have been saved, a motion from the Mayor sent the plan in a surprising new direction. Why the reversal—and what happens next?

🚲 Bike Lane Battle in the West End

Dozens of residents filled city hall in white t-shirts to oppose a proposed bike lane on London Street. Their concern? Lack of consultation and limited design options. A motion from Coun. Minhas could pause the project—will it succeed?

🇨🇦 Thank You, Coun. Minhas? A Cooler Canada Day Ahead

With temperatures expected to reach 28°C, New West residents are thanking Paul Minhas for helping move this year’s Canada Day festivities from sun-scorched Pier Park to the shady canopy of Queen’s Park. Will this become the new tradition?

🎧 All this—and more—on this week’s Canada Day episode of For the Record.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon. If you enjoy the show, share it with your friends and family—and help spread the word!

Next up is a focus on 'quiet zones'. They are quite common in the USA, but may be coming to New West if a motion is adopted next week at council. The motion speaks to how and where a 'quiet zone' could be officially designated by the city and how it may help to speed up whistle cessation efforts in the Royal City.

Do you own a business in Uptown or Downtown? Do you know how much you are paying in annual fees to your local business improvement area association? The self-imposed fees are collected by the city and passed along to the BIA to pay for their annual operations. A number of business owners have asked if there can be more transparency regarding exactly how much each business owner is paying and what they are getting in return. A motion is calling for more transparency when it comes to letting business owners know exactly what they are obliged to pay each year.

When is a lamp standard considered as heritage? That's what the residents of Massey Victory Heights were asking when they demanded the city put a halt to removing all their lamp standards without consulting with them first. The 50+ year old lamp standards have helped to provide the unique look of Massey Victory Heights which is filled with mid-century modern homes. A report to council next week was music to the ears of local residents when they learned the project may be temporarily shelved and the construction contract cancelled.

The drug injection site near the SkyTrain station has applied for another temporary 18 month extension to their existing 3-year temporary permit. But this time, thanks to a NWP motion, the permit will only be issued if there is a Good Neighbour Agreement in place. The entire draft agreement was made public this week and it talks about something called peer-driven security and a renewed focus on keeping the area adjacent to the injection site clean and free of public disorder. But will it all work?

All this and more on the podcast. If you enjoyed it, be sure to tell your friends and family to follow it on Apple Podcasts, Amazon or Spotify.

That's right, the National Post, City News, CKNW and a range of high profile social media platforms were covering the controversy regarding the removal of New West's crown logo. Out with the crown, in with the tugboat. So far, the public reaction has been decidedly negative, but Community First doesn't appear willing to back down. In fact, they're doubling down!

Listen to a province-wide interview Mike Smyth featured which focused on the logo controversy. Callers to the show had a few pointed comments to make about the Royal City's mayor and his commitment to dump the crown. You're out of order!!

Next up is an exclusive interview with School District #40 Trustee Kathleen Carlsen. She speaks about her recent advocacy to raise the plight of New Westminster students and teachers forced to learn in overheating portables. Carlsen was featured on CTV, Global and City News this week. Her opinion piece co-authored with Trustee Danielle Connelly was prominently featured in the Vancouver Sun.

We also share an excerpt of an interview Trustee Connelly did with AM 730 host Jill Bennett. She too is speaking about concerns regarding a lack of school capacity and the impacts it's having on students, teachers and their parents.

It's official! Now that Council has passed a motion introduced by Coun. Paul Minhas, the month of April will forevermore be designated as Sikh Heritage Month. Minhas speaks about what motivated him to initiate the motion and what it means to the local Sikh community in New West.

The podcast wraps up with a tribute to King Charles who recently delivered the Speech from the Throne at the invitation of Prime Minister Carney. If you enjoy the podcast be sure to encourage your friends and family to listen every week and to follow us!

FTR is available on all major platforms including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon.

Listen to the media roundup where a couple of media stories focusing on a controversial Metro Vancouver pay raise and a high profile law suit are featured.

Out with the crown, and in with the ?? What will New Westminster's new logo look like now that Community First politicians have decided to can the crown? You won't have to wait much longer as the big reveal takes place on Monday, June 9th in the council chamber. Will the new logo shed it's colonial past, once and for all?

A motion in Vancouver to regularly proclaim Sikh Heritage Month has inspired a similar initiative in New Westminster. Coun. Paul Minhas is trying to get a majority of council to vote yes in support of adding Sikh Heritage Month to the annual list of recognized cultural events.

Ever wondered why some BC Hydro programs never make their way to New Westminster? It's because we have a separate electrical utility that doesn't harmonize all of our programs with them. But that may be changing thanks to a NWP motion that got passed a while ago. A staff report coming to council is recommending some excellent changes which may open up the door to new energy saving and climate protecting programs!

The podcast closes off with a great song by Ranj Singh! If you enjoyed this podcast, be sure to tell your family and friends to follow! It's available on all major platforms including Apple Podcast and Spotify.

To start off the podcast, the topic of 'just exactly what is temporary' comes up. When it comes to drug injection sites and homeless shelters, why does temporary mean up to six years? In the case of the downtown drug injection center, they just got a green light to proceed with getting an 18 month extension on their 3 year 'temporary' permit.

Was it a heritage revitalization agreement, or simply a rezoning to allow for more density in historic Queen's Park? That was the crux of the debate as a homeowner at 318 6th Ave wanted Council to provide approval to 3rd reading of a Heritage Revitalization By-Law. Not everyone on New West Council thought there was enough revitalization in that revitalization agreement!

Beep. Beep. Beep. Bang. Bang. Bang. That's the sound of construction at the new Royal Columbian Hospital. Thanks to a vote of the Community First representatives on Council that may well be the sound local Sapperton residents start hearing at 7 am every Saturday morning. International construction company Ellis Don applied for the exemption to do work early on Saturday mornings - and it was granted.

The US flag will be quietly removed from the Queen's Park Arena for the first time in decades. Thanks to a unanimous vote of Council the American flag will be swapped out and replaced with a City of New Westminster flag. Feedback from the public has been overwhelmingly supportive - we explore why. Have a listen to an interview with CBC's On the Coast host Gloria Macarenko and Daniel Fontaine.

All this and more in the latest edition of For the Record. If you enjoyed the podcast be sure to encourage your friends and family to follow. It's available on all major platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcast.

A Deloitte report commissioned by Metro Vancouver includes 47 recommendations to improve the governance of the organization. That's more recommendations than there are board directors (41) which is quite astounding. The local media refer to it as a 'damning report'. Let dig a bit deeper and listen to an interview on the Jas Johal Show on AM 730 on this topic.

AM 730 host Jill Bennett discusses an open letter written by four city councillors calling upon Premier David Eby to reinstate the Office of the Municipal Auditor General. Why is Victoria so hesitant to make a move? Are they afraid to wear the political mess that is unfolding at Metro Vancouver?

Lastly, we talk about congestion pricing and whether a $200 per vehicle charge is close to becoming a reality. Do you want to pay a new 'congestion tax' that would help to fund TransLink? Or should senior orders of government redirect existing funding to this important priority to tackle climate change?

All that and more in what we guarantee is an information and analysis-filled podcast! If you liked it be sure to tell family and friends to follow For the Record with Daniel Fontaine and Paul Minhas. It is available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and all major platforms.

First up to the bat is a discussion on the $110,000 Council committed to make permanent the Citizen Assembly. It was a pilot project that was initially heralded as an opportunity to streamline the city's engagement activities and make them more effective. While the survey says yes, a couple of NWP councillors said no. Find out why.

Did you hear about the machete wielding thief who entered the Paradise Donair shop on 12th Street? He scared the living daylights out of the staff and was subsequently arrested and charge by the NWPD. Unfortunately, the judge let him out the next day and told him to 'behave'. What gives? Is this the new normal in New West?

May Day has been around for 155 years. It used to receive lots of support from the School Board and City Council, but no more. While other organizations recently cobbled together get tens of thousands of tax dollars, May Day gets a fraction of that to keep the lights on. May Day Committee member Scott Rains let er rip at Council and told them the organization needs to regain its special status within the city. But were the politicians actually listening and willing to act?

"Holy micromanagement Batman" said Councillor Nadine Nakagawa in response to a motion asking for more openness and transparency in city budget-making. If approved, it would have meant all projects at the city would have to have a budget and it would be readily available to the public. So why did the motion get voted down?

Tolls. Levies. Congestion Pricing. You take your pick. It appears the BC NDP government is about to make driving your vehicle a lot more expensive. Have municipal politicians really convinced Victoria to give them new taxation power to help fund public transportation in Metro Vancouver? And will it really cost you $200 more per year to drive?

We also do an event roundup and much, much more! If you like the podcast be sure to tell your friends and family and encourage them to follow. It's available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and all major platforms.

A significant motion passed this week that will change the way city hall communicates regarding major projects/initiatives. You can expect better signage, enhanced communication during both the consultation and construction phase of major projects. Listen to find out more!

It was a packed house at New West Council this week as 10 people signed up to exercise their democratic rights. FTR focuses on three of the delegations - one focused on crime and safety in our parks resulting from a video circulating in town of a 'lewd act' taking place at Pier Park. The other two focused on bike lanes on E. 6th Ave and 7th Ave near the 22nd St SkyTrain station.

Tired of the incessant train whistle noise in Sapperton? You're not alone. How will our new Member of Parliament fare compared to the last one in getting the federal government to act more boldly when it comes to stopping the train whistles?

The NWP is seeking a mayoral candidate by June 30th. They've also announced that anyone seeking a council or trustee endorsement needs to have their paperwork in by September 29th. FTR talks about why the NWP is being 'inundated' with local residents who want to run for a council and trustee spot!

FTR looks ahead at some key upcoming events over the next month or so including the Queen's Park Garage Sale, Councillor Cafe - Queensborough Edition and PopUp Council booths.

If you enjoy the podcast, be sure to encourage your friends and family to follow us today! It is available on Apple Podcast, Spotify and all major platforms.

Next is a discussion regarding mental health and a motion coming to New West Council later this month. Should Premier David Eby be declaring a mental health emergency in British Columbia? Will Victoria make more investments in mental health beds and drug treatment and recovery beds? Eby's recent announcement of only 10 new mental health beds at the Surrey Pretrial Center hasn't gone over well - with good reason. Listen to an excerpt of an interview CKNW host Jas Johal did on this topic with guest Daniel Fontaine.

Just how and when did the infamous burger poll at Burger Heaven get started? FTR sits down with manager Chris Gieb to discuss how the poll got started and the state of local politics in the Royal City.

BC Minister of Infrastructure Bowin Ma introduces Bill 15 in the BC legislature and it triggers a firestorm response! She talks about how for every 10,000 new people added to New West, we should be getting 50 new classrooms, 18 new hospital beds and 4000 new homes. But why has she been so silent on how many new community centers, libraries, pools, parks and playgrounds you need as well?

Looking to apply to become a candidate with the NWP? The Board of Directors met this week and have announced the dates for which you need to apply for the Mayor, Council and Trustee positions.

All this and much, much more! If you enjoy the podcast be sure to let your friends, family and colleagues about us and encourage them to follow. The podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and all other major platforms.

Starting off the top the discussion focuses on the federal election and some political prognostications. Who will pull it out of the hat on Monday in the New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville riding? Will the NDP's Peter Julian have the opportunity to be in Parliament for a quarter century? Or will upstart Liberal Jake Sawatsky make an upset victory? Could the Conservative's Indy Panchi surprise the pollsters? What about the final tally at the national level?

A motion has finally been submitted to removed the USA flag from Queen's Park and replace it with the City of New Westminster flag. But will the motion be defeated due to the fact our local flag is simply 'too colonial'?

You're hired! That's what New West City Council will be saying very soon as they undertake a process to hire a new city manager. The current city manager will be retiring early next year and the recruitment process is about to get underway.

What is a Pop Up City Council office and why will one be installed on the boardwalk near the Samson V floating museum on Saturday April 26th from 11:00 am to 1:30 pm?

The 'independent' governance review of Metro Vancouver is underway and a familiar face was interviewed as part of that process. Will the process yield real change? Why has there been almost no news when it comes to getting answers about the Metro Vancouver Wastewater Treatment Plan cost overruns? What's with all the silence and lack of transparency?

Another successful Councillor Cafe was held in Queen's Park last week. It was a full house and there were lots of great comments and questions!

What is the NWP doing when it comes to recruiting council and school board candidates for 2026? Is there an update? Who could they be talking to about running for Mayor and council? Tune in to get the inside track!

All this and much more in the latest edition of FTR with Daniel Fontaine and Paul Minhas. If you liked the podcast, be sure to follow and encourage your friends and family to do the same. FTR is available on all major platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcast.

It's time to delve into the federal election with a focused discussion on some responses provided at an all-candidates debate in Queensborough this week. All of the candidates were on stage and they were asked to comment about what local issues they're hearing at the doorsteps. There were a few common themes and some rather unique responses too!

Is New Westminster getting it's fair share of federal and provincial infrastructure dollars? At least one candidate thinks so. The discussion regarding New West's infrastructure deficit was front and center with our federal politicians.

The NWP held one of the largest (and most successful) political fundraisers in New Westminster in a long time. Over 150 people were in attendance for the 3rd Annual Spring Fundraiser at the Taverna Greka. It was a fun and boisterous event with some attendees asking for more!! Find out what this fundraiser might mean for the upcoming civic election in 2026.

The infamous Burger Heaven 'bunofficial' poll is definitely producing some very interesting results. In the almost 30 years they have been doing the burger poll, the NDP has always been on top - but not this election.

Find out who is leading in that poll - and by a large margin! Is this yet another sign of things to come on April 28th? After 21 years, will New West be getting a new Member of Parliament - and if so, who will that be? CBC Radio aired a story on the Burger Heaven poll and it's featured in the podcast.

If you enjoy listening to FTR, be sure to tell your family and friends to follow. It's available on all major platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

A familiar face showed up to the special Queensborough Council meeting to advocate for a new turf and track field at Ryall Park South. Former NWP mayoral candidate Ken Armstrong made a presentation to Council asking them to support this important investment in his Queensborough neighourhood. Find out what the staff response was and why Armstrong left the meeting a very happy man!

Metro Vancouver presented their new trimmed down budget this week and it included double digit budget increases for as far as the eye can see. Yet Metro Vancouver wanted taxpayers to applaud their efforts at spending less. Should they?

Tis the season of resident association meetings. A few of them have taken place the last few weeks including in Brow of the Hill, West End, Massey Victory Heights and Downtown. They were packed with federal politicians, wonder why? As one federal election candidate said "this election is considered as a job interview". Does that also mean it's also time for a performance review for our former Member of Parliament?

Queensborough MLA Steve Kooner asks the BC NDP Minister of Education some tough questions about funding for a bus transporting high school students to NWSS. The Minister's response in the Legislature might come as a surprise!

Popular CKNW host Mike Smyth talks Metro Vancouver budget and whether it's appropriate to fly the USA flag at Queen's Park Arena. Listen in to the interview and summary of responses from his callers.

The FTR podcast is available on all major platforms including Apple Podcasts and Spotify. If you enjoy it, be sure to tell your family and friends to follow!

The podcast starts off with a discussion regarding what constitutes effective consultation in New Westminster. Should a number of hot button issues including the public toilet at the InterUrban building, rewilding and naturalizing, West End rain gardens and the homeless shelter at Army and Navy be subject to new 'enhanced' communication and community consultation protocols? Should they have been designated as 'signature' or 'materially significant' civic projects/programs?

Are some of the most effective lobbyists at New West city hall a group of Queensborough Middle School students? They recently wrote to the Mayor and Council asking that Ryall Park get new investments which would include a new turf and track field. There were some very compelling submissions which will be hard to ignore!

Pier Park East and Pier Park West finally get reconnected - at some point soon. This will become a wonderful new public amenity for local cyclists, pedestrians and residents living downtown and beyond. While the date has yet to be determined, it's only a matter weeks before you can walk contiguously along our waterfront. But what about that connection to Sapperton?

CKNW host Mike Smyth asks Coun. Daniel Fontaine to join him to discuss a column written by the Vancouver Sun's Doug Todd. It focuses on the skyrocketing taxes in New Westminster and whether unfettered growth and densification has impacted the increases.

Will the American flag in Queen's Park Arena finally be taken down? Four city councillors indicate they might be interested - but are they?

Let's talk about some upcoming events including the 3rd Annual Spring Fundraiser for the NWP which just announced it was SOLD OUT. How about the April 22nd Councillor Cafe - Queen's Park Edition which is expected to get a healthy crowd of local residents in attendance.

May 22nd...who will be announced as the special guest for the next Councillor Cafe in Queensborough? Have a listen to find out. You hear it first right here!

If you enjoy this podcast, be sure to encourage your friends and family to follow us! It's available on Apple Podcast, Spotify and all major platforms.

Have a listen to excerpts from their presentations where they plead with Council to change the way city hall consults with residents and business owners. Presentations by residents Mike Timoffee, Brandi Rogocky, Grant Penner and Myles Liversidge are featured.

Richmond Queensborough MLA Steve Kooner makes his first appearance at city hall. He's the first MLA or MP to come in and present to the Mayor and Council since the 2022 civic election. He spoke about his advocacy for a new turf and track field at Ryall Park South as well as a new high school in Queensborough.

The podcast discussion also focuses on a new motion coming to council that will help increase the level of consultation and communication for 'signature' projects. But will it get the required four votes to become a reality?

Coun. Paul Minhas talks about his motion which aims to permanently eliminate the city's 3.5% Climate Action Levy (aka mini carbon tax) in time for the 2026 budget process. Previous attempts have all failed 5-2, but with the BC NDP and Federal Liberal governments both abandoning their consumer carbon tax, will Community First stick with their levy?

What happened this week at a West End Resident Association meeting? A high profile guest made a special appearance. Listen in to find out who that was! HINT: It rhymes with hat trick.

A look ahead to a few NWP and councillor events coming up over the next couple of months including the 3rd Annual Spring Fundraiser at the Taverna Greka on April 15th. It's almost sold out, so get your tickets today. April 22nd is the next Councillor Cafe - Queen's Park Edition. It takes place at the Queen's Park Arena.

If you enjoy this podcast, be sure to encourage your friends and family to follow it. For the Record is available on all major platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcast.

UPDATE: Since this podcast has been recorded, it has been confirmed that 4 councillors are prepared to potentially support a motion to remove the US flag at Queen's Park Arena and replace it with the City of New West flag...stay tuned!

The discussion starts off with the on again, off again debate regarding the rewilding pilot project on the 5th St boulevard in the lovely Queen's Park neighbourhood. A few months ago the green manicured boulevard was ripped up as part of the City's biodiversity strategy. A number of mature holly trees were also cut down. In its place came a lot of mulch, rose bushes, massive logs, blueberry plants and few smallish trees.

The 'rewilding' and 'naturalizing' pilot project didn't go over that well with the local residents who live adjacent to the boulevard. They raised a stink with city hall and last week the entire mulch field, logs and bushes were removed. Now it appears this will all be replaced with wild grass and flowers - but not if local residents have their way.

Have you heard of BridgeNet? If you live in New West and pay taxes, you own it. A while back a question was asked in Council regarding how long it would take before BridgeNet actually broke even. This week we learned that it will not be until 2038 before BridgeNet breaks even. Should the City even be in the business of running something like BridgeNet?

The infamous 3.5% Climate Action Levy (what many refer to in New West as our own version of the provincial and federal carbon tax) is back up for debate again as part of the 2026 budget. Now that PM Mark Carney and Premier David Eby have abandoned their failed experiments with the consumer carbon tax, will New West finally abandon its Climate Action Levy being charged on every single electrical bill?

Do we need to assess and improve the way we communicate and consult with local residents and businesses in New West? A motion coming to council next month is seeking to do just that.

Canucks on Columbia won't be coming to New West in 2025, but what about next year?

The staff at Metro Vancouver were in the council chambers last week talking about their new Liquid Wastewater Management Plan. Council ended up not endorsing the plan. Has this set a precedent for other cities? Will we ever get answers to why the North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant went so much overbudget?

It's a packed podcast! If you enjoy it, be sure to tell your family and friends to follow it too! FTR is available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and all major platforms.

A motion introduced at New West Council on Monday, March 10th focused on providing the School District with support for their capital plan which asked the Ministry of Education to assist with land acquisition to build a new high school in Queensborough. While the motion was heavily watered down, it triggered a very testy debate. One councillor read out a letter from the school board which she interpreted as a message telling her colleagues to 'buzz off'.

Meanwhile another councillor lectured her colleagues that if they wanted to set priorities for the school board, they should quit council and run there next time. Really? All the motion was calling for was to support a SD40 capital plan ask for a new high school - but did that ask really get made, or not?

After the Monday council meeting, the SD40 trustees then debated the letter Chair Maya Russell had sent to Council which triggered the 'buzz off' comment. You'll be surprised to find out what the school trustees did with that letter and why it now has to be rewritten and sent back to Council to correct the record!

Why is New West so far behind when it comes to school construction given we are the 2nd most densely populated city in Canada? We never even made progress when our local MLA was the Minister of Education and our MP was in a partnership agreement with the federal Liberal government. Why so?

There is a discussion about a rally being organized outside MLA Jennifer Whiteside's office by the District Parent Advisory Council in support of Simcoe Elementary - as well as a petition launched in Queensborough to advocate for a new high school - click here to sign. Needless to say, it was a busy week focused on education!

This podcast also includes an exclusive interview with NWP school trustee Kathleen Carlsen who just announced she has wrapped up her cancer treatment and is conducting her duties in-person again. It's an interview you won't want to miss as she also provides some background and context regarding the infamous 'buzz off' letter!

It's another great podcast focusing on New West issues! If you enjoy it, be sure to tell your family, friends as that's how we've been building our audience. FTR is available on all major platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcast.

Starting off the podcast is a discussion on the topic of a new lobbyist registry in New Westminster and Metro Vancouver. A motion recently got passed asking the Lower Mainland Local Government Association to support a request to establish a lobbyist registry for Metro Vancouver and other mid to large-sized cities. New West Council has done its part, now it's up to the LMLGA to do theirs. Have a listen to an interview on this topic conducted by Jas Johal on 730 AM CKNW.

Two notices of motion are on the docket for next week at Council. They won't be debated until March 24th, but Council will receive them for debate. They include a motion to officially put a halt to the Queen's Park boulevard rewilding and naturalization pilot project.

Another motion calls for the implementation of a Priority New West policy that will provide residents and local business owners with increased priority when accessing programs and services. Will the motion pass unanimously?

A motion to be debated on Monday March 10th is a call for Council to support a School District 40 request for funding to begin the process of building a new high school in Queensborough. But should the new high school also capture the student population in East Richmond? The Chair of the School Board sends a letter to Council and weighs in with her thoughts.

What ever happened to the New West Caucus or "Team New West" motion". It was passed about two years ago and called for the Mayor to convene a non-partisan meeting of the three MLAs, MP and City Council for a discussion on how they could all work together to advance the interests of New Westies. There are signs a meeting may be convened soon, but what took so long?

Why are so many business owners and residents calling it quits? Two individuals have said they've had enough of the politics, waste of tax dollars and poorly set priorities of our local politicians. They're packing up and moving out of New West - but should they?

Columnist Doug Todd from the Vancouver Sun triggers a vigorous online debate regarding whether we're building amenities at a fast enough rate to keep up with our population growth. The headline of his column (which became the number one trending story on the Sun website for almost 36 hours) asks if becoming the 2nd most densely populated city in Canada was worth it. Have a listen to the discussion about whether we could or should have done more to invest in parks, pools and playgrounds!

Thanks to a NWP motion, patio hours are about to be extended in New West. Just in time for summer. Listen in to learn more.

If you enjoy this podcast, be sure to tell your friends an family to follow For the Record with Daniel Fontaine and Paul Minhas. If you have any story ideas or suggested guests, be sure to contact FTR today!

We have exclusive interviews with New Westminster (Queensborough) MLA Steve Cooner and Tony Luck, Municipal Affairs Critic. Luck introduces Fontaine and Minhas in the BC Legislature before asking a couple of tough questions to the NDP Municipal Affairs Minister. Tune in to hear the thunderous desk thumping and heckling when a question about an inquiry at Metro Vancouver is posed!

In the Council Roundup, the focus turns to an upcoming motion regarding the naturalizing of 5th and 2nd Street boulevards. The Minhas motion asks for Council to formally put a halt to the rewilding of the boulevards until the next civic election in 2026.

Another motion titled 'Priority New West" looks to provide local residents and businesses with priority access to city hall operated programs and services. This is something that already takes place in other municipalities, but to a lesser degree in New West.

The discussion also focuses on the possibility of a new high school in Queensborough. Will the Province of BC provide funding to School District 40 to get the project moving forward? Will that new high school be a joint project between New West and Richmond?

Will vape shops be regulated in New West and beyond? A motion introduced by the NWP several months ago has triggered another motion to be debated at a Lower Mainland Local Government Association meeting taking place later this year.

This podcast is available on all major platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcasts. If you enjoy the podcast, be sure to help spread the word by asking your friends, family and colleagues to follow us!

Right off the top, the discussion focuses on the potential of a new high school in Queensborough. A motion coming to Council calls for greater advocacy regarding a School District 40 request of the Ministry of Education for funding to construct a new high school in Queensborough. Is it possible we can think out of the box and have the Richmond and New West School Districts work collaboratively to build this new educational institution?

Next up is a discussion regarding a Metro Vancouver watermain break which had significant impact on a dozens of New West families a week ago. While restoration crews are on site cleaning up the mess, questions are being asked as to whether the review being conducted by Metro Vancouver will be truly independent. Furthermore, will the residents be provided with all the details and analysis provided by the third-party investigator?

The Mayor's Urban Caucus issued a statement which called for significant advocacy on a number of fronts including more supports for detox and recovery beds. New West Mayor Johnstone signed on to the news release, but will Council support all of the wording included in the communique? A motion coming to Council will determine whether everyone agrees with the Urban Mayors Caucus.

It appears the rewilding and naturalizing of the boulevards on 5th and 2nd Streets may be on hold for a while. According to a staff email to residents, there will be no more 'rewilding' until the pilot project can be fully assessed. This means residents likely won't see any further changes until AFTER the 2026 civic election.

Should you be able to find out how much each elected official in New West collects by way of salary, stipends and expense claims? That's the thrust of a motion by Coun. Paul Minhas who is asking that effective 2024, all payments made to New West elected officials for attending Metro Vancouver, TransLink and other regional boards, be consolidated and made available as one public report. Is this a 'no-brainer' or not?

An open house in Queensborough this week brought together city staff and the community to determine the level of interest in constructing a new turf and track field at Ryall Park South. A motion to this effect was introduced by the NWP back in January 2023 - and two years later the community has now been chosen as a finalist for this new capital investment. Will Queensborough come out on top - or not?

Karima provides an update on what the NWP is doing when it comes to candidate recruitment for the civic election next year. She's also put under the gun and asked what her future political plans are - does she take the bait?

If you enjoyed this podcast, be sure to encourage your friends and family to follow For the Record. It's available on all major platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

It will make for a great podcast and there's even a bit of controversy brewing! Tune in to find out why!

It's hard to believe a mundane report on procurement could trigger controversy. The problem wasn't the report itself, it was more about how it got initiated. Is there now a precedent set that individual members of New West Council can direct staff to undertake work without getting the prior consent of their colleagues? Listen in to find out!

Kudos to local residents in Connaught Heights for initiating a pollinator project in their neighbourhood. They're doing it to protect our environment and tackle the issue of climate change. But are all those efforts blown away when a single member of Council jumps on a jet plane to Japan or Dubai? Does the carbon footprint of a discretionary international junket or personal trip counterbalance all the great work being done in the local community?

This shouldn't come to you as a "shock", but a motion asking to conduct a market assessment of the New West Electrical Utility got referred to the political equivalent of 'never-never land'. The motion was calling for a review of the current governance and operation model with a goal of maximizing the returns for local ratepayers. But it didn't take long for a Councillor to start talking about the 'privatization boogeyman' with another one quickly moving a motion to refer this to the Electrical Utility to analyze.

New Westminster's pilot Citizen Assembly is being publicly heralded by our civic politicians as 'leading edge' and 'innovative consultation'. The Assembly's work is all wrapped up now with an 'independent' assessment of the pilot project getting underway soon. Anyone want to guess as to what the final results of the review will be?

If you enjoy this podcast, be sure to encourage your friends and family to follow us. It's available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts along with all other major platforms.

A report in the 'consent agenda' of the Feb 10th New West Council meeting outlines how a new illicit drug inhalation center is set to open up in downtown New West. The report was only made public a few days ago and is likely to get the support of a majority of Council when it comes up for a vote of Feb 10th. But with only a few days in the public realm, have local residents been provided with enough time to weigh in on whether they want this latest harm reduction service to be added into their neighbourhood?

Queen's Park residents have spoken and many of them are none to happy about the prospect of 'rewilding' or 'naturalizing' both the 5th Street and 2nd Street boulevards. A portion of the 5th Street boulevard has already had the special biodiversity treatment and it's not going over well with local residents who are organizing a 'grassroots' campaign to put a halt to all of this. Yes, pun intended!

The latest Councillor Cafe featuring retired architect Michael Geller was a huge success. Just under 100 people attended the event that focused primarily on the proposed Columbia Square redevelopment. If approved, it will jam 7,500 new residents on to a postage stamp lot on the western part of our downtown that is already facing numerous challenges with traffic and transportation.

What does a sold out Burger and Beer at Begbie's mean for the future of civic politics in New West? Is the NWP momentum continuing to build in time for the 2026 civic election? It would appear so.

Will a motion to approve two new Remembrance Day commemorative crosswalks get the green light from Council on Feb 10th? The discussion focuses on why our veterans deserve this special tribute in 2025.

The next NWP event is at the Taverna Greka on April 15th. Click here if you want to purchase tickets.

If you enjoy this podcast, be sure to let your family and friends know. It is available on all major platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcast.

The podcast starts off talking about a "Rewilding" and "Naturalizing" project taking place on 5th and 2nd Street boulevards. The grass is starting to get ripped up, the holly trees are being cut down - so let the rewilding begin! The project has a number of local residents up in arms demanding further consultation and a rethink of the entire expenditure.

The 23% (2023-2025) property tax hike took another big step forward this week when Council passed the budget by-law. Included in that 2025 budget was a small, but controversial item to include a new honorarium of approximately $7,000 to the Chair of the Police Board. That just happens to be Coun. Tasha Henderson who is already compensated $60,000 to be a city councillor. This has attracted media attention and it has yet to be determined if Henderson will accept the honorarium or not.

The Canucks on Columbia motion received unanimous support, but it wasn't without a few 'cautionary' remarks by members of New West Council. There was the inevitable discussion regarding whether this could trigger another Canucks riot - sigh. One member of Council even said organizing a downtown gathering might result in the emptying out of local restaurants and pubs. Really?

The massive Columbia Square redevelopment project moved forward another step this week with the unanimous approval of a guarantee of around 130 affordable housing units. It is estimated that approximately 7,500 people will be moving on to this site once it is fully built out. So how many new libraries, community centers and swimming pools will be accompanying this project? Tune in to find out.

FTR looks ahead to the next few weeks in Council whereby two motions regarding the BC Urban Mayors' Caucus and increasing openness and transparency at city hall will be debated.

Of course, what would an episode of FTR be without a discussion focusing on Metro Vancouver's ongoing PR nightmare. This week Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim announced he was boycotting Metro Vancouver until it implements some significant governance reforms. This news came as a bombshell, but will other mayors and councillors be following suit? Stay tuned.

If you enjoy FTR, be sure to tell your family and friends to follow! This podcast is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

First up is a discussion regarding the West End and Massey Victory Heights resident association meetings. Resident associations play a critical role in the community and a couple of them had special meetings this week to discuss a range of neighbourhood topics.

The 23% property tax hike (2023-2025) keeps inching closer as the Budget By-law is about to be voted on at New West City Council on January 27th. It's forecast that this term of Council could result in a 30% tax hike - a record for the Royal City.

Mayor Johnstone's trip to Dubai in 2023 has triggered a review of the City's policies when it comes to international travel. A staff report is making some significant recommendations regarding the manner in which overseas trips are approved and reported to the public.

Metro Vancouver's ongoing PR disaster continued unabated this week with revelations that spending on per diems and meeting fees is ballooning 'out of control'. Listen to several interviews and media reports on this topic which are bound to increase your blood pressure!

Coun. Paul Minhas will have his "Canucks on Columbia" motion debated at the next Council meeting. But will our cherished Canucks be seeing some post-season play this year? Only time will tell.

Minhas is also bringing forward a motion to install special Remembrance Day sidewalks in New West. It's likely to get the support of Council and be implemented later this year.

Upcoming events include the Jan 30th Councillor Cafe at the Holy Trinity Cathedral at 514 Carnarvon St from 7-9 pm. No RSVP is required. Don't forget the Burger and Beer @ Begbie's event on Feb 6th. Tickets are $30 and it's almost sold out.

If you enjoy For the Record with Daniel Fontaine and Paul Minhas be sure to tell your family and friends to follow us too! This podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and all major platforms.

There is also a segment featuring Michael Geller, retired architect and developer, who talks about how density needs to be accompanied with investments in new public amenities. Geller will be the guest speaker at the Jan 30th Councillor Cafe taking place at the Holy Trinity Church at 514 Carnarvon St. from 7-9 pm. Geller reveals a couple of interesting connections to New Westminster.

The podcast also features a number of media interviews featuring Coun. Daniel Fontaine speaking about massive pay packages for Metro Vancouver mayors. Did you know the Mayor of Burnaby raked in almost $400K in pay and benefits in 2023? Listen to a series of reports and commentary featured on CKNW and Global TV.

If you enjoy the FTR, be sure to encourage family and friends to follow the podcast! It is available on all major platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

Next up Paul Minhas puts Daniel Fontaine on the spot and asks him whether or not he's considering throwing his hat in the ring in 2026 to become New Westminster's next mayor. Is Fontaine really considering it?

Monday, January 13th is the first Council meeting of the year and it features a debate on whether the City of New Westminster should raise property taxes by 23% in the first 3 years of this term. Also up for discussion is a motion brought forward by Minhas asking staff to prepare for outdoor and indoor street activities in time for the NHL playoffs this spring.

To wrap things up the discussion turns to the big Councillor Cafe being planned for Thursday, January 30th featuring guest speaker Michael Geller. The event is open to the public and no RSVP is required. It's taking place at the Holy Trinity Church on Carnarvon St. from 7-9 pm.

Next week FTR features an exclusive interview with Queensborough resident Jag Sall who is a senior executive for the Gurdwara Sahib Sukh Sagar. We talk about how the Gurdwara is an integral part of the community and how it is doing some amazing outreach activities.

If you enjoy this podcast, be sure to encourage friends and family to follow us. The podcast is available on all major platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

Join For the Record co-hosts Daniel Fontaine and Paul Minhas as they countdown the top 10 newsmakers in New West in 2024. Which civic political stories made the cut and why?

This new and final podcast of 2024 is packed with interesting analysis and commentary on some of stories that made headlines - for all the wrong reasons.

This podcast is available on all major platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcasts. A special vodcast of this Top 10 edition is also available on the NWP (New West Progressives) Facebook page and www.danielfontaine.ca. If you enjoy FTR, be sure to let your family and friends know!

Kathleen was up against 'the machine' but never gave up! She came close to winning in the general election in 2022 and had the opportunity to put her name back on the ballot in 2024. This time she came out on top.

We talk to Kathleen about what it took to win and what she was looking forward to doing now that she would be sitting on the School Board. It's a great interview that you're not going to want to miss.

In our next and FINAL podcast of 2024, we delve into the Top 10 civic issues of 2024. Be sure to tune in!

If you enjoy listening to For the Record, be sure to let your friends, family and colleagues know. The podcast is available on all major platforms including Apple Podcast and Spotify.

Alison shares with us some stories regarding what issues seniors are dealing with in New Westminster and beyond. She talks about some recent success stories in helping to get seniors housing and what more needs to be done to make sure we prevent seniors from becoming homeless.

The Senior Services Society run a number of very successful programs that help to keep seniors in their homes longer and improve their quality of life. This is a great interview packed with loads of great information. You will want to tune in.

If you enjoy listening to For the Record, be sure to let your friends, family and colleagues know. The podcast is available on all major platforms including Apple Podcast and Spotify.

We talk about mental health, crime and property taxes and much more. Mayor West doesn't pull any punches and let's you know what he thinks during this interview which covered a wide range of topics. The interview took place at the Union of BC Municipalities convention in September.

If you enjoy FTR and these podcasts, be sure to tell your family and friends. Also encourage them to follow the podcast as well. FTR is available on all major platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcast.

Gail talks about her own personal journey taking an older home that was in need of restoration and returning it back to its former glory. She also talks about the state of affairs at New West city council as she regularly can be seen in the audience every two weeks.

It's an interview you won't want to miss! If you enjoy it and the FTR podcast, be sure to let family, friends and colleagues know. Encourage them to follow the podcast as well!

FTR is available on all major platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcast.

Jennifer opens up regarding how her business has been impacted by crime and public disorder in the downtown. We talk parking rates and what drew her into the service sector in the first place.

We also discuss what more City Hall can do so support small business owners to not only survive in New West, but also to thrive! It's a great interview that took place right in the restaurant/pub! It's an interview you don't want to miss.

If you are enjoying FTR, be sure to tell your family, friends and colleagues. You can also ask that they follow us too! This podcast is available on all major platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcast.

This episode features an exclusive interview with Kayvan Rahmati, CEO for the popular Waves Coffee which is headquartered in New Westminster. He sits down with co-host Paul Minhas for a wide-ranging discussion on a number of interesting topics including how Waves got its name! Kayvan even gets to play 'Bell or Buzzer' and you'll have to listen to hear how well he did.

If you enjoyed this podcast then be sure to recommend it to your family, friends and colleagues and encourage them to follow FTR. The podcast is available on all major platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

MLA Sturko pulls no punches as she takes direct aim at Premier Eby and his NDP government's failed decriminalization experiment in BC. She talks about how the experiment resulted in very negative impacts when it came to public disorder on the streets of New Westminster and beyond.

It's definitely an interview you'll want to download! Sturko has since left the BC United Caucus and sits as a member of the new BC Conservative Caucus and serves as the Official Opposition Critic for Public Safety.

If you enjoy FTR podcasts, be sure to tell family and friends it is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and all other major platforms. Encourage them to follow us too!

Rich is a proud New Westie and a vocal supporter of the local business community. He is also an active member of BC's oldest Chamber of Commerce which is located right here in New Westminster.

We cover a number of issues of interest to the local business scene and talk about what more can be done to create and support more thriving enterprises in the Royal City. It was a candid, frank and informative discussion. Have a listen!

This podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and all major platforms. If you enjoy it, be sure to let your family and friends know and encourage them to follow us.

PS don't forget our Top 10 in 2024 podcast will be posted here very soon! It will cover off the top 10 civic news stories in New West this year.

In this edition, we feature Anita Dunn, former owner of Mila and Paige on Columbia Street. Anita was featured on Global TV news regarding some of the serious issues her business was facing with shoplifting and crime.

This podcast triggered a lot of conversation in New West and was one of the most downloaded episodes this year.

FTR is available on Spotify and Apple Podcast as well as all major platforms. If you enjoy listening, be sure to tell your family, friends and colleagues to follow us!

Thanks for listening!

They also delve into what the $277M capital plan (just approved by a majority on Council) includes. You might be surprised that the funding envelope incorporates $170,063 for some new 'pollinator pastures' and $200,000 for office renovations at city hall.

This podcast is available on all major platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Be sure to encourage your family, friends and colleagues to follow us and help spread the word.

Tune in to hear a number of great topics discussed including the recent announcement that Council has a approved a notional 7.6% property tax hike in 2025. What does that translate into for average homeowners and small business operators? More than you think!

Next up is a discussion about the proposed 7th Street bike lane which if approved will remove lots of street parking, switch part of the road to one-way and add in a new dedicated bike lane. A recent public meeting at the library drew a very large and active crowd of residents who for the most part were not impressed with the proposal. Is it a done deal?

What would a podcast be without another discussion on the new dedicated bike lanes on East Columbia which is causing major traffic headaches and triggering complaints from local residents - many of them seniors. Can anything be done to fix this 'problem' which many locals indicate was an unnecessary investment in the wrong location?

The next Councillor Cafe downtown edition has been scheduled for January 30th at the Holy Trinity Cathedral - Parish Hall - from 7-9 pm. It looks like a lot of residents concerned about the Columbia Square redevelopment project are planning on being there. So too are downtown residents concerned about public toilets being installed in front of their residences. No advance registration is required, but come early as the seating is limited and Coun. Paul Minhas is predicting a packed house!

Speaking of the Columbia Square redevelopment, that petition has over 1000 signatures on it now! What will Council do when all those names are submitted to them asking for a reconsideration of their decision to approve the massive new development at 88 10th Street?

Another petition is now over 1100 signatures! That one pertains to a request for safety upgrades at 2nd Street and 6th Ave. Parent organizer Lyndsay Cotterall appeared on the Mike Smyth Show on CKNW to discuss.

Did popular CKNW host Jody Vance just call the For the Record podcast 'cool' to all her listeners? Way to go Jody!

Why did the Province of BC announce a major review of EComm 911, but have been silent on the wasteful spending and mismanagement at Metro Vancouver. What's up with that?

A motion to limit the overall number and location of vape shops got unanimous approval from Council. A special letter of support came in only hours before the debate, you might be surprised to learn where it came from!

All that and much more this week on For the Record which is available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and all major platforms.

This week the podcast starts off with a conversation between CKNW's Jas Johal and Daniel Fontaine. The topic is Metro Vancouver and an opinion piece co-authored by Fontaine and city councillors Paul Minhas, Kash Heed and Brent Asmundson. It's a pointed discussion focusing on Metro Vancouver waste, misspending and mismanagement.

Next up is a focus on the New West 2025 budget. Of particular concern was an approved 61% increase in the sewer fees for local ratepayers. There was also another attempt to lower the Climate Action Levy (aka tax) on electricity bills - but it was turned down, yet again, by the Community First majority on council,

Why did a Community First councillor try to put forward a motion, only to struggle to find anyone on Council willing to support her? Then moments later her motion went down to a resounding defeat. Exactly what is behind that political move?

Did you know the petition calling upon Council to improve the safety at 2nd St and 6th Ave has almost 1000 signatures! If you haven't signed in yet, please do so. Here is a link to it.

There were tears and fear expressed regarding what would happen to the residents living adjacent to the massive Columbia Square redevelopment project at 88 10th Street. Almost 50 owners attended a special strata meeting to hear from Fontaine and Minhas regarding 'what next' for this 8 tower (up to 53 stories) project.

Do you live in downtown New West and wish you had better amenities like a community center, a library or a new park? Well a motion that was approved at Council by a 4-2 vote means a new downtown is one big step closer to reality. Should increased density be the key to unlocking the funds to build these new amenities?

All this and more in a jam packed podcast which is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and all other major platforms. If you like the podcast, be sure to let your family, friends and colleagues know and encourage them to follow!

Tony and Lyndsay represent over 500 parents who have signed an online petition calling upon City Hall to take action to invest in safety upgrades for this intersection.

A motion that came before Council on January 8th to set aside $500K for improvements to the intersection was defeated 3-3 (tie vote is a lost vote). However, both Lindsay and Tony think Council may have a change of heart and be willing to reconsider their previous decision.

Listen to this inciteful interview about some of the challenges the parents face in turning advocacy into action.

If you want to sign the online petition, click here.

Our first guest is Erica Wong who is once again organizing the special Queensborough Firehall Lighting Ceremony. Erica talks about her involvement with this special community event which is taking place on Saturday, November 30th. She also invites everyone to the Queensborough Christmas Market taking place on November 23rd.

Next up is life-long New West resident Dave Prevost. While he's never been political in the past, the Columbia Square project (construction of up to 8 towers at up to 53 stories high) has got him motivated. In fact, he started an online petition which is garnering lots of community support calling for Council to have a rethink. Prevost talks about his concerns regarding building so much density without the appropriate community amenities.

During the weekly Council Roundup, the discussion leads to a number of reports and motions brought forward to the November 18th Council meeting.

A staff report on the new Crisis Response Team has co-hosts Paul and Daniel focusing on the $1M annual cost that should be paid for by senior orders of government. Once again the City of New West is stepping up while Victoria and Ottawa sit on the sidelines regarding an issue that falls within their jurisdiction.

Next up was a briefing about covering up ditches and building sidewalks in select areas of Queensborough. A Community First councillor moved a motion to spend $1M on a 'quick treatment' plan for a number of streets in Queensborough that will result in a significant loss of street parking. It will also result in many of the streets becoming one-way, vs. two-way streets. Why did Council approve this first then ask staff to consult with local residents afterwards?

The 'temporary' homeless shelter at the former Army and Navy building on Columbia has received a 5-2 approval for another 3 years. Yes, that means the 'temporary' homeless shelter that was only supposed to be open for only18 months will be in operation for six years. Yet the unhoused on New West streets wait desperately for the Province of BC to construct the long-awaited supportive housing units on the corner of 6th and Agnes. The doors for those units won't open until at least January 2026!

Civic democracy is alive and well in New Westminster. That's in part due to a 6-1 vote to retain the status quo at Council and not place any annual limits on how many motions councillors can introduce each year. Let's hope this is the last in a string of initiatives and discussions over the past 24 months aimed at restricting the democratic right of elected officials. After the next election when the NWP form a majority, democratic reforms will be initiated to open up city hall once again.

It's a packed podcast that you'll want to listen through to the end. If you enjoyed it be sure to tell your friends and family to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcast and all other major platforms.

What do you consider as temporary? Do you think 6 years qualifies? Council is being asked on Monday to approve another 'temporary' three-year permit for the homeless shelter located at the former Army and Navy site on Columbia. That means the 'temporary' shelter will be open for at least six years - and any prospect of the Army and Navy building being redeveloped will be shelved, yet again. Just when will all that supportive housing promised by Victoria arrive?

Parents with children who are attending Herbert Spencer Elementary and Glenbrook Middle School have had enough! They want improvements made at the 2nd Street and 6th Avenue intersection to help reduce the risk to pedestrians. A previous motion to review this intersection for possible capital upgrades was initially approved - then eventually defeated by the Community First majority. Will the parents be able to convince Community First to reconsider their decision?

The rain held off long enough to hold a dry and incredible Remembrance Day ceremony at New West City Hall. Not all members of Council attended and it caught the attention of a number of attendees. But the mood at the Legion was uplifting with an amazing performance by the Royal Westminster Regiment Band. We provide you with an exclusive performance!

Is the rent charged in New Westminster really the 5th highest for any midsize city in B.C.? You bet it is. So why then are developers of market rental provided with so many special breaks by City Hall? Shouldn't that be reserved for developers of below market and more affordable rental units?

Time to review some of the upcoming events! We do an event roundup covering off some planned townhall forums and Councillor Cafes being planned for early 2025.

If you like this podcast, be sure to tell your friends, family and colleagues. That's how we help to spread the word.

The podcast starts off with a discussion on the New West Mayor's Code of Conduct hearing at which his breach of the Community Charter Act was discussed and debated. In the end, the Mayor has been asked by Council to take some additional training - but was that enough?

Who would have thought that e-bikes and a meat shop could collide. But they did this week when the Queen's Park Meat and Deli started a petition calling upon the Mayor and Council to remove an e-bike parking station. The owner was complaining that it resulted in two parking spots being removed from in front of his establishment. Did this story have a happy ending?

The City of New Westminster is applying to the federal government for a grant to offset almost $2M in expenditures to set up a Crisis Response Team Pilot Project. Should New West taxpayers continue to do the job of the senior orders of government when it comes to dealing with the critical issues of mental health, homelessness and poverty on our streets?

If you live in Burnaby you're eligible for up to $10,000 in grants to offset your costs to install solar panels and battery storage. If you live in New West not so much! That's because not all BC Hydro programs were created equally. Listen to how a NWP motion that came to Council may lead to more equity between BC Hydro and New West Electrical Utility customers.

What do you define as temporary? 3 years? 6 years? That was the topic of discussion when Council debated the approval of a 'temporary' use permit for another homeless shelter downtown. In the end, 'temporary' got defined and the concerns of local residents were incorporated into the final decision. So how long is 'temporary'?

Monday November 11th is Remembrance Day. Be sure to attend the special ceremony at New West City Hall at 10:30 am (rain or shine). This is a great way to pay respects to our soldiers and veterans who lost their lives over the course of so many global conflicts.

If you enjoyed this podcast, be sure to tell your friends, family and colleagues to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and all other major platforms.

First up on the podcast this week for discussion is the massive Columbia Square development project. Once fully built out, it will include up to 8 towers at 53 stories high. Over 7,000 people (including 530 students) will be moving in to this postage stamp property. Is this really the right scope and scale of development for this site, or not?

Survey says! Yes, Ipsos has surveyed New Westminster residents and business owners and asked them what they'd like to see in the 2025 City of New West budget. Surprisingly only a handful of businesses bothered to complete the survey. What is behind the low response rate? Did New West residents really say they don't want tax hikes above the rate of inflation which now sits at 1.6%?

Should the City of New West really be doing the Province's job of building affordable housing? Council recently decided to invest a minimum of 80% of a $60M pot of funds associated with the Columbia Square project to build affordable housing - even though the BC government has the primary responsibility. That means unlike other cities, we can't use these funds to build new pools, recreation and community centers, parks and more.

Will this be the year that ALL members of Council attend the Remembrance Day ceremonies at City Hall? Only time will tell.

NWP President Karima Budhwani is in the studio and she's talking branding. That's right, the NWP is refreshing its brand in time for the 2026 election. The green and blue colouring remain, but the focus will be on NWP and the tagline #ChooseProgress. Why make the change now? We ask Budhwani to provide us with some insight.

The weekly event roundup also talks about the November 7th Councillor Cafe in Sapperton as well as the NWP fundraiser on November 21st at the former home of Mayor J.Johnson in Queen's Park.

If you enjoy this podcast, be sure to tell family, friends and colleagues and ask them to follow! FTR is available on all major platforms including Apple Podcast and Spotify.

That gift wrapped box you see on the table conceals a BIG birthday surprise we've left to the end of our podcast. HINT: it has to do with the future of For the Record and where we go from here!

Special guest Coun. Paul Minhas is once again in studio. We also interview Alison Silgardo, CEO for the Seniors Services Society of British Columbia. What issues are New West seniors facing when it comes to accessing housing, support programs and coordinating our new digital world? Are we doing enough to help seniors navigate a complex and challenging labyrinth of government programs and services?

We also have another edition of 'Council Roundup' where we discuss the controversial Columbia Square development project at 88th 10th Street near the New West SkyTrain Station. Could it soon become home to 8 towers up to 53 stories high and 7,500 new residents? Is this the right project for Canada's second most dense city?

The 3.5% Climate Action Levy placed on monthly electrical utility bills as well as the 2025 city budget are also up for discussion.

You'll also want to listen in to our special "2 years in 20 minutes" segment where host Daniel Fontaine and Coun. Paul Minhas look back at some of the highlights of their first two years in office.

This is a fun, informative and action packed podcast that you don't want to miss. If you enjoy it, be sure to encourage your friends and family to download it today. The podcast is available on all major platforms including Apple Podcast and Spotify.

To contact the Seniors Service Society of BC call 604-520-6621 or visit their website at seniorsservicessociety.ca.

The interviews focused on the recent atmospheric river and the retroactive pay hikes at Metro Vancouver. The interviews were broadcast on a number of mainstream media including CBC, Global TV and CKNW.

The regular weekly For the Record podcast featuring special guest Alison Silgardo from Seniors Society of BC and New Westminster City Councillor Paul Minhas will be released on Saturday, October 26th. You won't want to miss that one as we have a BIG announcement to make - and it's also our 1 year birthday party celebration!

This podcast is available on all major platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcasts. If you like what you hear, be sure to tell family and friends to follow and listen!

Why did Richmond-Queensborough come out on top when it came to campaign commitments? Why was there crickets in Burnaby-New West and New West-Coquitlam ridings? We explore and analyze what could be behind this phenomenon.

The City of New West declared a climate crisis, yet did you know that local residents are not eligible for all BC Hydro programs to reduce energy consumption? For example, New West residents are not able to take advantage of a $5000 grant program to install solar panels and battery storage. Is that fair? Will a motion coming to Council soon help to resolve this inequity?

A number of parents in New West are fuming mad with City Council after it passed up on the opportunity to provide long-term stable funding to expand the popular Walking School Bus Program. We explore what led to the Parent Advisory Councils sending an extraordinary letter to Mayor and Council last week. But will it lead to a positive outcome?

Lastly, we provide a hint of some BIG changes coming to this podcast. A BIG announcement will be coming on Oct 25th regarding the future of For the Record with Daniel Fontaine. Tune in for a few hints as to what the change might be.

If you enjoy this podcast, be sure to tell family, friends and your work colleagues. That's how we keep growing the audience each week. If you want to listen to the podcast, it's available on all major platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcast.

We explore the reasons why provincial political parties are falling all over themselves to capture the hearts and minds of Queensborough while literally ignoring the two other New West ridings.

It's official! New West taxpayers are one step closer to shelling out $90,000 to a BIG law firm to "Sue BIG Oil". But based on the reaction of numerous callers to the Jill Bennett Show it's clear how out of touch Community First politicians are with their constituents. Special guest Coun. Paul Minhas breaks down why the "Sue BIG Oil" motion is going over like a lead balloon with local residents.

New West Council voted unanimously to support a motion calling upon the next Premier to conduct a governance review of Metro Vancouver. About time! Let's see what the next Premier does with that request.

A BIG "New West" sign on Pier Park took one BIG step forward this week when a motion by Coun. Paul Minhas got approved by a vote of 5-2. Will Tourism New Westminster be able to secure the funding and city approvals to get the sign on the waterfront by next summer?

The Queensborough Bridge is jammed during rush hour often cutting off the people living in Queensborough from the rest of the mainland. The bridge backup also plays havoc on 20th Street. A motion got approved this week that might help to eventually relieve some of that carbon-inducing congestion.

You'll also want to hear an interview from the Jas Johal Show on CKNW featuring Coun. Daniel Fontaine. The topics include Sue BIG Oil and Metro Vancouver governance.

If you like this podcast, be sure to tell family, friends and colleagues all about For the Record with Daniel Fontaine.

There is a downloading dilemma going on in New West and throughout British Columbia. The City of New West is taking on responsibilities for programs and services that should be administered and/or paid for by senior orders of government. A staff report coming soon is about to provide all of the details regarding how much this is costing New West residents and businesses each year.

A NWP apology leads to a curious discovery on the Community First website. Some of the wording on their site has quietly been changed to strike out references to the BC NDP. But why so?

Conspiracy theories abound as a select few 'keyboard warriors' talking to themselves in their echo chamber make false assertions about who was planning a townhall forum at the New West SkyTrain station. What are the facts? Just who was organizing the townhall forum that suddenly got cancelled with little advance notice? Time for the facts, please!

Host Daniel Fontaine is interviewed by Mike Smyth from CKNW about skyrocketing tax increases being proposed by Metro Vancouver - our unelected, unaccountable and increasingly expensive regional government.

CKNW's Jas Johal Show also invited Fontaine on to the podcast to talk Metro Vancouver and a proposal to expand the Pattullo Bridge to six lanes. Incredibly, Fontaine does a policy flip flop and agrees to the expansion - but with a caveat! A pretty big caveat!

PS we even have a special Sesame Street appearance this week!

Be sure to listen in and tell your friends and family if you enjoy the podcast. That's how we continue to grow our audience and spread the word. This podcast is available on all major platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcast.

Some of the topics discussed include a viral video recorded on Columbia Street showing a public bus stop being used for private purposes - including the consumption of illicit drugs. We'll share an interview from CKNW's popular Jill Bennett Show on this topic.

Are you prepared as a New West taxpayer to give $80,000 to some high priced lawyers so we can join a "Sue Big Oil" lawsuit? A motion will be coming to council soon - so we discuss.

Would you like to see at least one 2025 operating budget scenario with a maximum tax increase of 4.5%. A previous attempt to have this happen got voted down. But if at first you don't succeed, try try again!

If you are living in New West did you know you are paying a special 3.5% climate action levy (also known as a tax) on your electricity bill each month? An attempt to temporarily remove that levy in 2025 is about to be debated soon.

Over 27,000 views of videos posted by the New West Progressives in less than a month? What the heck is going on?

Did city council just appoint Coun. Daniel Fontaine to an external body? Say it isn't so. Listen through to the end of the podcast to find out about this amazing appointment.

If you enjoyed this podcast, be sure to recommend it to your family and friends. It's available on all major platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

In 2023, he finally recorded his own album “Bridge Across the Years” inspired by the great bands of the 70’s and 80’s and drawing on an international cast of exceptional musicians. Released to great critical response, the album will see its first public performance at The Anvil Theatre on November 9.

In addition to performing their own album, you can look forward to hearing thrilling tributes to the acts that inspired the album including songs by Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, The Rolling Stones and more.

Dunn has pulled together an exceptional ensemble cast of 12 musicians to help him pull this off including Marc Gladstone (Prism), Clayton Hill (Trooper) and Mike Russell (Nick Gilder, Sweeney Todd).

Also joining will be two of Vancouver’s most highly regarded female vocalists, Joani Bye (who can be heard on albums ranging from Cher to David Bowie and Bon Jovi) and Cathy St. Germain (whose credits include work with Paul Rodgers, Ray Charles and Loverboy).

Partial proceeds are being donated to the New Westminster Secondary School band program to help support the great work they do in instilling a love of music in young people.

Ticket prices:

$65 plus service charges

Early bird price: $57 plus service charges (until October 1)

https://anviltheatre.ca/event/a-celebration-of-classic-rock/

Some of the topics host Daniel Fontaine and Mayor West touch upon include involuntary care, homelessness, transit funding and property taxes.

Also making another appearance this week is New West Councillor Paul Minhas. In this week's Council Roundup, the topics of a 'mini' carbon tax, Cycling Sundays, Metro Vancouver wasted tax dollars, community block party fees and much, much more are on the table for discussion.

The topic of "The Way I See It" editorial this week is Premier David Eby's turnabout on the issue of involuntary care. Why was a NWP motion calling for mental health supports in December 2022 shot down by Community First? Why are CF politicians not speaking out against NDP Premier David Eby's campaign promise to force some people with mental illness into involuntary care in modernized Riverview-like institutions throughout BC?

This is a podcast you will want to listen through to the end! It's available on all major platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcast.

Listen to an excerpt of his interview which focuses on the recent BC Government decision to reverse course regarding involuntary care for some mentally ill people.

We have an exclusive interview with Gail North, President of the Queen's Park Resident Association. Learn about Gail's experience restoring her heritage home and find out why she is a fixture at city hall every two weeks.

"The Way I See It" focuses on the major policy flip flop by Premier David Eby and his NDP government regarding the carbon tax. Special guest Coun. Paul Minhas speculates whether this flip flop will encourage council to take a second look at our own version of the carbon tax - the 3.5% Climate Action Levy imposed on all monthly utility bills in New West.

Will Canada Day be in Sapperton next year? How about Queensborough? Council debated a motion to seek feedback from the public regarding whether to move the Canada Day festivities around New West. The motion got approved, but not without a twist!

Would you like to be able to safely and easily cycle from the western end of the boardwalk along the Fraser River through to the Brunette Fraser Regional Greenway in Sapperton? How about a pilot project called "Cycling Sundays" that could involve the temporary day-long closure of Front Street next summer. You heard it here first!

Did you host a block party this summer and appreciate the fact the fees have been waived due to a NWP motion which got approved in Council? Good news, the fee reduction is now permanent and the issue with securing the proper insurance has also been resolved too.

If you enjoyed the podcast, be sure to tell family and friends to follow For the Record. It's available on all major platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

We start the podcast with a discussion on Mayor Patrick Johnstone's plummeting popularity. Will he decide to run again? Will he face a challenger within his own Community First Party? The summer BBQ circuit was definitely filled with political prognostications regarding the future of New Westminster's 'one and done' mayor.

Did Council really gather for a special meeting this week only to not approve the agenda and adjourn the meeting before it actually began? In full view of the cameras, did a councillor actually flip flop their vote? We discuss what transpired at the meeting and why it could be considered one of the most anti-democratic in recent history.

Why was guest Coun. Paul Minhas asked by the Mayor to publicly apologize for a video he released about a massive chainlink fence that was erected downtown? The fence was quietly installed in late August at the 'temporary' homeless shelter which opened three years ago at the former Army and Navy building.

Council crosses the river and heads over to Queensborough for its annual gathering. A special Council meeting will take place at the Queensborough Community Center and will discuss a new Lobbyist Registry and whether to rotate the location of the Canada Day celebrations.

We also share an interview Coun. Minhas had on CKNW's Mike Smyth Show and much, much more. Be sure to tell family, friends and colleagues if you enjoy the podcast which is available on all major platforms.

CKNW's Rob Fai (guest host for the Jas Johal Show this week) invites Fontaine to appear on the program to talk Metro Vancouver. This time the focus is on their current budget consultation process and whether it's more than just optics. We share the radio interview in its entirety.

Enjoy the long-weekend and be sure to tell family and friends if you enjoy the podcast which is available on all major platforms.

Does New Westminster have enough EV chargers? A number of folks don't think so. What more could and should be done?

Is it time for New Westminster's tree removal by-law to get reviewed? A local residents writes to Council about her family's horrific experience dealing with a by-law that she considers onerous and inflexible.

When it comes to hosting big events on public streets, what rules should be put in place to make sure local businesses aren't negatively impacted? Is it fair to put large, obstructive vehicles in front of existing sidewalk patios of local restaurants and pubs? Coun. Minhas shares his personal experience over the past few years when Begbie Tavern's (he's the owner) patio has been placed behind a wall and near gas powered electric generators blowing fumes on his customers.

Will the motion put forward to expand the Walking School Bus program get the endorsement of at least 4 councillors on Aug 26th? The program reduces carbon emissions & traffic congestion around schools. But will the motion secure at least 4 votes to make it over the finish line?

Do New West residents unnecessarily pay too much for business license, park and recreation fees? That's the focus of a motion coming to Council asking for a review and comparison to other cities. But will the motion fail 4-2 yet again?

Is the host of this podcast really going to become the Acting Mayor on September 1st? Could it be?

Did the Mayor of New Westminster really release a video celebrating the paving of roads with asphalt? We focus our attention on the horrible condition of some New Westminster roads and why 6th Avenue has been particularly bad for way too long.

If you like this podcast, be sure to tell family and friends to follow us! It's available on all major platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcast.

Fontaine also launches a new segment called "News Westminster". He will touch upon in rapid fashion a number of key media stories and letters to the editor that have a New Westminster connection.

The podcast also features a discussion with CKNW radio host Scott Shantz regarding a proposal to introduce a new Lobbyist Registry in New Westminster.

If you like the podcast, be sure to tell friends and family to follow and share! It's available on Apple Podcast, Spotify and all major platforms.

The opening opinion piece "The Way I See It" talks about how local politicians could take a lesson or two from the Olympic games and our athletes. Is it possible for New Westminster City Council to ever win a gold for governance?

This is Pride Week in New Westminster and we discuss the crucial role Coun. Minhas played over a decade ago to support the LGBTQIA2S+ community. He speaks to how the former Heritage Grill and its staff played a role in helping to support inclusion and acceptance.

Does New Westminster need a Lobbyist Registry? Should the Province of BC be managing a Lobbyist Registry on behalf of municipalities? Are you concerned when local politicians are being lobbied you don't know by whom or when? The topic of a new Lobbyist Registry in New West will surely be of interest to you!

There were a lot of complaints about the location of this year's Canada Day festivities at Pier Park. Whether it was the lack of trees on a hot day, the limited accessibility or a myriad of other issues, perhaps the time has come to reevaluate how we choose the location of our Canada Day celebrations?

Are fees for businesses and recreational services competitive with neighbouring jurisdictions? A motion coming to New West Council will be debating whether we need to analyze our cost structure compared to our neighbouring cities.

Ever heard of a 'walking school bus'? We have a couple of them in New Westminster but a motion coming to Council proposes that we have a lot more and that they receive long-term secured funding. Walking school buses are carbon free, encourage kids to remain active, however they aren't widely adopted throughout our compact city.

Columbia Street closes. It opens. Front Street closes. It opens, and closes again. Another building is constructed downtown. Another sewer main is replaced. Is all of this construction and traffic rerouting causing 'construction fatigue'. We'll explore this topic and how all that noise, traffic chaos and construction is leading to some concerned residents.

Lastly, we do an events roundup! There is lots going on in New West and we cover off a few of the events taking place over the coming weeks. If you like this podcast, be sure to spread the word and let others know to follow For the Record with Daniel Fontaine.

Some of the topics we touch upon include a kick off discussion regarding the City of New Westminster's rebranding efforts. A new report posted online consolidates public feedback. It has been made public and the number one word to pop out of the 'word cloud' was 'historic'. Go figure! But exactly how will our history be reflected in the City's new brand identity?

What would a podcast discussion be without an update on the costly mushroom wall and Insect Hotel project which just opened up in Queen's Park. This segment had everyone behind the microphone in stitches, for obvious reasons.

Patio times have been extended to 11 pm throughout New Westminster this summer as part of a pilot project. Have you noticed the difference? It all comes a result of a motion introduced earlier this year at council.

Outside of the Pride event in August, why has it been so quiet on Columbia this year? Why have all the festivals and events all dried up? We can't blame the pandemic for this one, so what's up?

Mayor Johnstone calls out one of his colleagues as being part of the 'factless five'. So what happens when that same elected official calls out his own council colleagues as being the 'factless five'? Will that be ruled 'out of order' by the very person who used the term in a public forum? We may soon find out.

It's been almost 3 years since the 'temporary' homeless shelter opened up inside the former Army and Navy store on Columbia Street. Will the society that operates the shelter be required to seek an extension to the their temporary use permit - or not? Temporary use permits are supposed to be for a maximum of 3 years before they expire. This will be an interesting file to watch the coming months.

Host Daniel Fontaine also joins CKNW's Jas Johal for a discussion regarding Chair Mike Hurley's failed attempt to appoint a friend and major donor to his 2022 election campaign. What was he thinking? Johal and Fontaine chat about this latest goof up at the beleaguered Metro Vancouver.

Be sure to download For the Record with Daniel Fontaine on all major platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcast. A reminder to encourage your friends, family and colleagues to follow the podcast too!

It was reported that former Metro Vancouver Chair George Harvie billed Metro Vancouver taxpayers over $7,400 to stay on the exclusive gold floor at the Fairmont Hotel in downtown Vancouver. Reporter Jordan Armstrong provides a jaw-dropping breakdown of the costs as well as the rationale to support the expense.

Jordan also reports on a whopping 20% pay increase for the Metro Vancouver CAO in 2024. The CAO is now making well in excess of $500K per year.

Incorporated into the podcast is an interview regarding Metro Vancouver's recent $64000+ hosting charge at the Federation of Canadian Municipalities in Toronto in 2024. Listen to the Mike Smyth Show on CKNW with guest host Jody Vance as she speaks with Coun. Daniel Fontaine on this topic.

"The Way I See It" focuses on the upcoming provincial election and what to expect from municipalities, TransLink and other organizations. There will be a lot of hands out and requests for new funding from the party leaders. Will they disappoint?

Be sure to tell family, friends and colleagues if you enjoy this weekly podcast which is available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and all major platforms.

What do President Joe Biden and the New West Mayor have in common? Well, some say they may both soon have close allies and supporters asking them to step down for the 'good of the party'. That's a topic we explore as we undertake a special look ahead to what might transpire in the 2026 civic election year. Will Community First actually have a new candidate for mayor? Or will they hunker down and hope for the best under the current leadership?

A proposal for a new Marriott hotel on Columbia Street above the historic Columbia Theater was on the docket for discussion. How tall should it be? Will it impact a possible redevelopment of the adjacent Army and Navy site? What type of community amenities will we get as a result of this latest tower proposal?

Federal NDP leader Jagmeet Singh seems to have inspired - or perhaps heavily encouraged - his political allies in New Westminster to publicly endorse his idea of having Ottawa bureaucrats begin setting the price of our local groceries.

Yes, a motion was brought to council for debate regarding sending a letter to the Prime Minister encouraging him to start setting the price of our 'essential' groceries. But just exactly what is classified as 'essential'? Furthermore, should provincial or federal politics be directly influencing civic debates in New West?

The topic of e-scooters makes it on to the podcast as we play a segment that aired on the Mike Smyth Show on CKNW this week. The switchboard lit up with callers, all of whom had some pretty strong opinions.

Sit back, pop in the earbuds and enjoy this latest podcast. Be sure to tell family and friends to listen too. You can download For the Record on Apple Podcast, Spotify and all major platforms.

In this edition, special guest Coun. Paul Minhas discusses the tragic loss of a life on East Columbia which was the subject of a report to improve road safety. A number of recommendations were endorsed to support new capital investments to make this part of our city safer for pedestrians.

Another meeting, another request for 'budget enhancements' that would lead to the hiring of a new $80,000 + benefits grants coordinator. Can you guess what happened when a motion came forward looking to find efficiencies first before we simply passed on this cost to the 2025 budget? Bet you'll get this one wrong.

Another staff report focused on providing the Chief Licensing Officer with sweeping new powers to allow a food truck to pop up absolutely anywhere in the city. In the past, food trucks were only permitted in prescribed areas. What impact could this move have to existing brick and mortar establishments?

Do you think park and recreation fees are too high in New West? A motion approved by Council may put a cap on those fees for the one month and annual recreation passes until 2027 - but did an amendment put a twist on it all?

Council unanimously endorses two key staff recommendations to look at ways of ensuring all buildings (new and old) have a place for people to stay cool during the summer months. This is an issue most people expect would be led by the Province. But that didn't stop one councillor from putting forward an additional recommendation (not endorsed by staff) to kickstart a major work project that in the end may not actually be necessary.

Are elected officials really allowed to accept gifts (aka free junkets to travel abroad on civic business) from major international conglomerates (aka 3rd parties) like Molson-Coors? You'll be surprised to learn the answer to this question and who actually provided the clearest response!

An attempt to develop a made-in-New West 'eyes and ears on the street 'Community Ambassador Pilot program went down in flames. It was aimed at improving public safety, providing supports for our unhoused population as well as assist tourists.

Why did Council need to draft a motion, then send a letter to several BC NDP Cabinet ministers when the majority of the elected officials around the table are members of that same party? That's a good question that deserves an answer, but was one provided?

Lastly, we talk about communications. When do members of Council get the right to see a news release that is sent out on their behalf? Before, or after it has been sent to the media? Not surprisingly the governing majority on Council chose to increase the power base of the Mayor by consolidating even more power in his office. We discuss how this will impact our local democracy moving past the next civic election.

It's a packed podcast full of twists and turns that even generated a serious belly laugh from Coun. Minhas - who just couldn't hold back. Be sure to tell your friends and family about this podcast. Word of mouth helps to increase our listening audience. You can listen to For the Record on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and all major platforms.

Special guest Coun. Minhas is in studio with us and he provides his personal perspective on what transpired and why.

A number of interesting topics came up for discussion including raising the level of authority for the city manager for sole source contracts from $150K to $500K. We also discuss the injection of up to $16M to help support the ageing Massey Theatre with a new HVAC system and landscaping.

To poll, or not to poll. That was the question that got posed regarding whether to invest some tax dollars with Ipsos to survey up to 10,000 residents regarding what they'd like to see in the 2025 budget. Why did this stir up a debate and a split vote?

What would a council workshop be without another discussion about the City's public toilet strategy. City staff came to council to get clarity on exactly what direction they should go when it comes to installing more $650K stand alone public toilets. But yes, work to install more signage around town directing people to existing public toilets is now underway.

Should a new position at city hall automatically be filled by increasing taxes or should we be looking at efficiencies first? You can just imagine how that discussion wrapped up. Or can you? You might be in for a pleasant surprise.

Council also debated a motion to refer a major report regarding some significant (and costly) capital improvements to the city as a result of a consultant's study on bus reliability in our city. The referral would have been to the September 9th council meeting to allow the public more than a week to provide Council with their feedback. You won't be surprised to learn how that vote turned out. Spoiler alert, you won't be pleasantly surprised.

In Part 2 of this podcast, we'll continue to cover off a number of additional items that came up for debate at the 'marathon mid-summer meeting' on July 8th.

This podcast is available for download on all major platforms.

Mackie provides her personal insights regarding the significant challenges her business has faced over the past few years when it comes to managing COVID, construction on Columbia and Front Streets and crime.

Whether it's criminals breaking into her establishment to steal $20 worth of copper or the ongoing struggle with never-ending Columbia Street construction, we talk about what more can be done to help support local businesses cope with these challenges.

We also find out what got Mackie interested in the hospitality industry and what has kept her motivated to stay. She also provides some tips and advice to anyone thinking of moving their business into the Royal City.

Kelly O'Bryan's is located in a beautiful heritage building and the topic of heritage tourism also gets explored.

Mackie also provides a couple of book recommendations including Look Closer by David Ellis and The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett.

You'll want to listen to this podcast which also includes an interview with CKNW's Jas Johal regarding the ongoing saga otherwise known as Metro Vancouver.

This special mid-week podcast is one that you don't want to miss. We'll also be posting a special July 8th Council Roundup podcast this weekend which will be worth the wait!

Be sure to share this podcast with family, friends and colleagues and spread the word! That's how we continue to build up our audience.

The council meeting and workshop is packed with dozens of items which are no doubt going to spur debate and discussion. No wonder there is talk on this podcast about bringing pyjamas and extra snacks to council!!

Some of the topics discussed in this week's podcast that pertain to the upcoming council meeting include; Public toilet strategies, it's time for some clarification; Budget 2025 – have your say!; Sole sourcing, should the CAO authorization be increased to $500K?; Pay hike for politicians – again; Bus speed and reliability study; Food truck permits; East Columbia Street safety review; Royal Canadian Legion liquor license; Heat wave…what should you do to prepare?; Community Ambassador Pilot Program; New rules for international travel by elected officials; Should council be consulted before non-emergency communications are issued by Mayor Johnstone?; Why do NDP affiliated members of council need to send a motion regarding shelter aid for seniors to their NDP colleagues in Victoria?

This episode is jam packed with commentary including a segment from the Jas Johal Show on CKNW focusing on the need for a municipal auditor general. We also share a clip from the Simi Sara Show with veteran political columnist Vaughn Palmer who writes for the Vancouver Sun. He comments about the provincial government's decision to close the office of the Auditor General for Local Government back in 2021.

Hope you enjoy listening to this podcast as much as we've had producing it. For the Record with Daniel Fontaine is available on all major platforms.

The more things change, the more they stay the same. It was StatusQuo2.0 at "Club41" aka Metro Vancouver this week as they chose their new chair of the Board. He is none other than Burnaby Mayor Mike Hurley. The Chair didn't bother to let the public (aka Metro Vancouver shareholders) that he was running until minutes before his name was put on the ballot - thus conveniently avoiding any media scrutiny. He also made some interesting comments about a 'review' to take place regarding the North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant financial debacle.

Metro Vancouver was also making headlines this week for all the wrong reasons. News media were reporting that the CAO for Metro Vancouver was paid over $700K in compensation and benefits in 2023. That's after the Board provided him with a hefty pay raise. How will that sit with taxpayers struggling to make ends meet?

Will 2025 be the year New Westminster gets its Canada Day fireworks back? Or will it be a special drone show over the Fraser River. We discuss a motion coming to New West Council that aims to kickstart a discussion.

In 2026 FIFA will be in our region and New West will be participating in the party. As part of that discussion, Council agreed to purchase up to two large outdoor digital screens to use in the community. Is it possible that sponsorships or grants can be used to offset the costs? Minhas moved a motion to explore that opportunity.

What is SOFI? It's a report that outlines all of the expenditures at the City of New West. Interestingly well over $200,000 in transition allowances for several former elected officials was paid out in two separate calendar years. We explore what might be behind that move.

In our look ahead segment, we talk about two motions coming to Council on July 8th in support of Community Safety Officers and a restriction on international travel for elected officials. We also discuss June 30 as Indigenous Survivors Day in New West.

As always, the podcast is packed with great information and commentary. It's available for download on all major platforms.

We also bring back the popular "Bell or Buzzer" game and have Kayvan attempt to get all 4 responses right! Did he make it into the VIP Bell or Buzzer Club?

Minhas also turns the tables on Coun. Daniel Fontaine and gets to know what got him into politics. He also puts Fontaine on the spot with a tough question about his future political ambitions.

A number of media segments are also featured from Global TV and CKNW regarding golden parachutes for a former mayor and the ongoing financial debacle at the north shore wastewater treatment plant.

It's an episode you will want to download and share with your family and friends!

Minhas sits down with Rahmati for a wide ranging and interesting discussion about everything from the state of the business climate to what is Kayvan's favourite travel destination! Kayvan also plays Bell or Buzzer and he definitely surprises Minhas with trivia skills and knowledge of New West history.

Here is a sneak peek of part of the interview. Have a listen!

To start off "The Way I See It" segment asks about whether we have enough competition in the construction sector? Would more competition help to lower the price tag for ballooning costs related to municipal construction projects? Why is so little attention being paid to why construction costs are now in hyper-inflation mode?

In our regular Council Roundup section Coun. Paul Minhas joins the podcast for a review of the June 10th Council meeting. On the docket is a discussion about red tape for outdoor events; development fees and charges; supporting a public inquiry at Metro Vancouver; broken elevators on New West's waterfront; holding the State of the City event in a private venue inaccessible to our youth; tenant protection in the face of new NDP legislation to drive more development; whistle cessation and politicians getting into the action; an interesting council appointment to support E-Comm; a new $650K public toilet being installed on Begbie Street and facilitating extended hours on our patios.

In addition, we feature a story which aired on Global TV BC regarding the Northshore Wastewater Treatment Plant which is now almost $3B over budget. We top the podcast off with a clip from a recent Mike Smyth Show segment on CKNW where he highlights the financial wackiness of sending a seven person taxpayer funded delegation to Amsterdam to investigate sewers and dikes.

It's another great episode that you're going to want to listen to and share with friends, family and colleagues.

We start off with our regular "The Way I See It" segment which focuses on why the provincial and federal governments were a no-show when it came to being a major funding partner for the new təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre. The project cost over $110M and that tab was picked up almost exclusively by municipal taxpayers. One local resident asked the local MLA why that was the case at a recent townhall forum and you might be surprised with her response!

The podcast also features two segments with New West Coun. Paul Minhas whereby the topics of business investment, red tape related to outdoor street events as well a lack of elevator access on our waterfront are discussed.

Tune in to listen to hear an interview on the Jas Johal Show featuring a discussion regarding some long overdue reforms to the Metro Vancouver government structure. Johal and Fontaine discuss whether its time for the Province of BC to finally step in and take action. A Global TV story on this same topic is also featured.

It's patio season, so we need to talk patios in New West. Why aren't there more of them? Why are they forced to close so early? Tune in to hear about why we need to do more in New West when it comes to encouraging and fostering a vibrant patio culture.

Fontaine also highlights his attendance at a few community events this week to mark BC Seniors Week. He attended a townhall forum on the issue of seniors housing featuring Dan Levitt, BC Seniors Advocate. This was hosted at Century House and it included a fantastic Q&A session. The weekly summary of activities includes a discussion that took place at the City's Heritage Commission and a joint meeting of the Council and School Board.

The podcast is packed with lots of information that will be of interest to all New Westies! Be sure to spread the word and tell family and friends to listen as well.

It starts off with "The Way I See It" which focuses on the issue of cutting down trees and how citizens are treated compared to city governments. Should city officials have to go through the same hoops and accountability for cutting down mature trees as do private property owners?

During the Council Roundup, a number of topics that came up during the recent Council meeting are discussed. They include decolonizing New West's logo and removing the crown, the failed drug decriminalization experiment, electric scooters, a large development at 88 10th Street, train whistles in Queensborough and much more.

We also continue to spotlight some issues plaguing Metro Vancouver. This includes a feature interview between host Daniel Fontaine and CKNW radio personality Jas Johal. They talk governance and what can be done to modernize Metro Vancouver over the next few years.

The podcast also features a couple of stories by Global TV's veteran reporter Catherine Urquhart. She focuses on travel spending by Metro Vancouver Chair George Harvie.

Tune in to find out what Metro Vancouver did when it comes to managing the $3B+ cost overruns as the North Shore Waste Water Treatment plant. We also discuss how the vote went to increase the remuneration of the Chair and Vice-Chair at Metro Vancouver. You might be surprised to find out the final tally!

It's a great podcast filled with interesting facts, commentary and opinion. Be sure to let your friends or family know about For the Record if you enjoyed listening!

Now Metro Vancouver Chair Mayor George Harvie is asking taxpayers to pay for his next junket to Amsterdam before he is removed in that role on July 1st. Media are reporting this ticket for this trip is over $5,000. This is on top of the $20K+ taxpayers shelled out to send Mr. Harvie to Singapore.

How should taxpayers react when they see Metro Vancouver directors flying all over the world when the costs for mega projects they are responsible for are ballooning out of control?

The wastewater treatment plant in North Vancouver has gone from $700M to almost $4B in cost. The Iona wastewater treatment plant is now reportedly pegged at $12B and climbing in cost at a rate of $1B very six months.

In this episode we dig a bit deeper into what exactly is happening at Metro Vancouver regarding travel expenses and more. In "The Way I See It" we ask whether it's time for our provincial politicians to step in and propose some reforms to provide for more accountability at this unelected and in many ways unaccountable governing body.

Listen to several interviews which aired on CKNW and Global TV with hosts Jas Johal and Jill Bennett as well as reporter Catherine Urquhart. Our upcoming events segment also touches on New Westminster's Hyack Parade and the Heritage Home Tour.

If you liked this episode, be sure to spread the word by telling friends and family to listen for themselves!

Have you noticed limited access to the City's waterfront lately due to a lack of working elevators? A motion will be coming to Council asking that we start keeping track of how many days our residents lose access to one or both elevators at the same time on our waterfront. What more can be done to ensure at least one of them is working at all times?

Special guest Coun. Paul Minhas responds to accusations that he shouldn't have moved a motion to appoint a new chair for one of the City's committees due to the fact he didn't attend any of its meetings this year. You might be surprised to hear what he has to say in response to his critics.

A motion will be coming forward soon requesting the Mayor no longer hold his State of the City address in locations that prohibit access to our youth. We discuss whether it was appropriate to hold this important event in a private pay-to-access venue when other civic officials do this in publicly-owned venues or city hall. By doing so, that affords the Mayor's council colleagues the opportunity to respond!

A motion just got passed which will help to make New West city hall more open and transparent. You'll get to hear what the motion was all about and why it got unanimous support.

Is it time for a public inquiry into the North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant multi-billion dollar cost overrun? A motion will be coming forward soon asking for New West's rep (Mayor Patrick Johnstone) on the Board to demand more openness and transparency regarding how we got into this financial mess.

What does the future of our sports and recreation programs and infrastructure look like in New West over the coming decades? City council got to participate in an interesting workshop where the elected officials were asked for their opinion.

The topic of Ryall Park's artificial turf field and Queensborough featured prominently along with a few other items that have been on the minds of local amateur and recreational sport enthusiasts. You'll get to hear a few excerpts from the discussion that took place in council chamber.

"The Way I See It" focuses this week on New West making it on to the NDP Government's "Naughty List". That's the list of BC cities that are not doing enough to build housing fast enough. Is this really the right approach? Is this too much stick and not enough carrot? Why did the Province of BC not put any new $$ on the table as an incentive?

Finally, we have a bit of fun discussing Canucks on Columbia and whether our favourite NHL team will make it to the next round. In that regard Coun. Paul Minhas makes a bold prediction, now will it come true?

All this and much more on For the Record! Be sure to let family and friends know to follow us if you like what you hear. That's one of the reasons our audience keeps growing each and every week!

A motion coming to city council later this month regarding decriminalization is sure to trigger a debate. It has already generated some media interest and you can listen to an interesting head-to-head discussion on CKNW's Mike Smyth Show featuring Garth Mullins of VANDU (Vancouver Area Network of Drug Users) and For the Record host Daniel Fontaine. The Jill Bennett Show on CKNW also had a segment on this topic as well as the Canucks on Columbia event proposal.

New Westminster's record on planting new trees and our overall tree canopy are also discussed this week. How have we been doing when compared to other Metro Vancouver cities when it comes to our tree canopy? You might be surprised to find out!

The Mayor also held his annual State of the City address at a private adults only venue. Anyone under 19 was not permitted, nor were individuals who couldn't afford the ticket price or had no identification. Was this the right place to deliver this critical public address?

Councillor Paul Minhas makes an appearance for our regular 'Council Roundup" as we review some of the major topics discussed in the chamber this week.

The focus of "The Way I See It" opinion piece is Metro Vancouver Chair Greg Harvie. He is also the Mayor of Delta and this week he was provided with termination notice from his council. They are revoking his appointment to Metro Vancouver which means that effective July 1st he will no longer be the chair. During that local debate he indicated he needed to stay on a few more weeks to fulfill his duties which included an all expense paid trip to Amsterdam. Will Metro Vancouver still allow him to take that trip given that he'll be stepping down as chair soon?

It's a packed podcast with lots of great information. If you enjoy it, be sure to tell family, friends and colleagues!

Was his removal warranted? Harvie was essentially non-responsive to calls for a snow summit after our regional transportation network ground to a halt in the winter of 2022. He was also at the helm of Metro Vancouver when a task force was appointed to manage the North Shore wastewater treatment plant financial debacle. Costs had soared from $500M to an estimated $4B.

Did Delta council simply do what Metro Vancouver residents were unable to do through the democratic process? Should The Metro Vancouver Board of Directors put a halt to His Worship's all expenses paid trip Chair to Europe to investigate their diking system? Tune in to find out more!

In a wide ranging discussion, Fontaine and Minhas discuss a number of topics of interest to New Westminster residents and business owners. The podcast opens with a discussion focusing on Councillor Nadine Nakagawa's continued support for the decriminalization experiment in British Columbia. Nakagawa appeared on a LMLGA panel and both Fontaine and Minhas analyze what she had to say to the delegates.

The podcast also includes an interview Fontaine had with Matt Galloway from CBC's The Current. The CBC wanted to speak with Fontaine to get his take on the NDP government's recent decision to request Ottawa water down their decriminalization experiment.

With summer weather just around the corner, the topic of patios and a lack of them in New West is discussed. Are we doing enough to get more patios installed throughout the city? Tune in to find out.

In the opening "The Way I See It" segment, Fontaine talks about special outdoor events in the Royal City and whether we could be doing more to help facilitate them. Are there specific initiatives that could be undertaken to reduce red tape, eliminate costs and find ways of putting on events without breaking the bank? The answer is yes.

New West's business climate is discussed in the context of a comment made by Mayor Johnstone in one of his recent newsletters. Are two opposition councillors really to blame for creating the negative business climate in the Royal City, or are they just exposing what's been right under the nose of Council for years?

To close off the podcast, you'll want to hear the four questions posed to Coun. Minhas as part of the Bell or Buzzer game. Did Minhas answer all four questions correctly and make it into the BoB VIP club?

If you enjoy this podcast, be sure to let your friends and family know so they can listen too. To provide feedback or to contact us please visit www.danielfontaine.ca

Some the items discussed include a donation of $150,000 USD to the City of New Westminster. The source of the funds was Bloomberg Philanthropies which has as one of its stated goals to lobby civic politicians! You'll be interested to learn it took a trip to Dubai to become eligible to gain access to these American funds.

The City of New Westminster finalized its budget process and approved a 7.7% property tax increase which means taxes have jacked up 14% in only two years! Find out how that will impact both residents and small business owners.

A move to bring a motion to Council on the failed decriminalization experiment triggered national media attention this week. Will a series of motions brought to various municipal councils across BC be the impetus to back away from decrim?

In only 3 months the City of New Westminster's Citizen Advisory Panel has lost 3 members. Is this sustainable? Was it unexpected? This pilot project is now well underway and only time will tell if it yields its intended results.

A 37 storey tower in downtown New West gets approved by a vote of 4-2. Once built, what impact will it have on already overcrowded schools and daycares in the local area?

Did you try and buy a tree at the City of New West Bi-Annual Tree Sale only to find out they sold out in minutes? With the passing of a motion this week up to 3000 more trees may be added to the inventory that could solve that problem.

New West is now officially on the BC Housing Minister's "naughty list" when it comes to developing new housing. The Mayor didn't take too kindly to this designation calling it "BS". Find out why so many Metro Vancouver civic politicians think the Minister is simply offside.

All these topics are discussed and more! It's an episode packed with media clips, commentary - and we have a bit of fun doing it all too.

What do you think about setting up a Canucks on Columbia Fan Zone? It would consist of a couple of big screens and would allow fans to visit Hyack Square to watch the playoffs. It would be a BYOC (Bring Your Own Chair) event and would be family-friendly. Will it happen?

Does New West need more trees? During a recent bi-annual tree sale the City undertakes each year, the allotment of trees was sold in a matter of minutes. A motion coming to city council aims to increase the number of trees residents can purchase and plant on their private property or apartment balcony. Will the motion get majority support next week?

The NDP government's decriminalization experiment appears to be going horribly wrong. There are multiple stories of the diversion of government supplied drugs along with the consumption of illicit drugs in health care facilities like Royal Columbian. Will the NDP finally abandon this experiment before the provincial election? Or will the feds step in and pull the plug first?

We also discuss the recent NWP fundraising event and provide a clip from the Cambie Report podcast which talks about who is attracting more financial support when it comes to elector organizations in New West. You might be surprised to learn what was reported by Elections BC last week.

These topics and much more are on this week's edition of For the Record which is available for download on all major platforms!

Fontaine also paid a visit to the BC Legislature this week and had an exclusive sit down interview with MLA Elenore Sturko. She is a high profile member of the BC United Party and is the Official Opposition Critic to the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, New West MLA Jennifer Whiteside.

Sturko talks about how the NDP's policy of forging ahead with decriminalization is being felt on the streets of New West and at Royal Columbian Hospital. She also speculates as to whether the NDP will abandon the decriminalization policy before the next provincial election in October. You will want to listen to this interview!

The podcast also includes a New West Council roundup for the April 8th meeting and additional coverage on the commemorative ceremony that took place on April 13th to honour Ben Flores. He was the first Filipino immigrant to Canada in 1861. This segment includes the beautiful words, song and drum beats from Squamish Elder Wendy Charbonneau.

This podcast is available on all major platforms including Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google Podcast and Amazon.

Benson Flores was the first Filipino on record to have settled in Canada - on Bowen Island, British Columbia in 1861. He died in 1929 and was buried in an unmarked grave in Vancouver.

While Filipinos are known to have arrived in Canada in 1930s, this is disputed with the 'discovery' of Benson Flores by broadcast journalist Joseph Lopez in 2011.

A memorial tombstone will be placed on his grave at Mountainview Cemetery in Vancouver with a Celebration of Life on April 13, 2024. Ted Alcuitas hopes to distribute the film thru YouTube and other platforms to help trace any descendants of Benson Flores as he died a bachelor and left no record of any family.

Join Fontaine as he speaks with Alcuitas about his New Westminster connection and why he got involved with this interesting project. You can download For the Record on all major platforms including Spotify, Amazon, Google Podcast and Apple Podcast.

The original cost for this infrastructure project was pegged at $500 million, but now it's estimated to cost upwards of $4 billion dollars. Once all the dust has settled, North Shore residents will be paying about $725 more in taxes per year for three decades to partially offset the cost overruns. Other Metro Vancouver residents could face increased annual taxes of $150 for 15 years.

Several mainstream media outlets interviewed Fontaine this week to discuss his call for a public inquiry and a forensic audit. Listen to those interviews from Global TV, City News and the Jas Johal Show on CKNW.

Fontaine is also calling for complete governance review of Metro Vancouver in the hope that changes could be implemented as early as 2026.

Also discussed is the issue of creating a more fun and vibrant street scene in downtown New Westminster. Why have so many street festivals and other outdoor activities simply packed up and disappeared? Can more be done to generate new life and a sense of vibrancy in our downtown core?

Minhas talks about what needs to be done to bring 'energy' back to the downtown. He also explains how more 'eyes on the street' could reduce both public disorder and crime rates while also helping to increase a sense of safety.

You'll want to listen to this latest episode which is available on all major platforms including Apple Podcast, Google Podcasts, Amazon and Spotify.

Karima helps to demystify the role of her elector organization as it pertains to the four elected members of the NWP caucus. She also discusses her passion to protect the environment as well as what might be in store for voters in the 2026 municipal election.

Meanwhile two new segments have been introduced in this episode. The first is "The Way I See It" where host Daniel Fontaine provides his take on an issue that caught his attention this week. In the inaugural segment, Fontaine comments on the new BC Electricity Affordability Credit and explores who is really the biggest beneficiary of the program - it will likely surprise you.

Secondly, a new "In the Record" segment will highlight a few interesting articles and letters to the editor that were published in New Westminster's Record newspaper online over the past week.

Our course, we end the podcast with our regular "Bell or Buzzer" segment where Karima was challenged with what is being described as four of the most difficult questions posed to date!

If you like this podcast, be sure to tell your family and friends in New West and beyond!

Fontaine also provides an opening commentary on a recent vote at New West City Hall which turned down making reforms to the Local Election and Campaign Finance Act. He argues there remain many loopholes that remain in the Act which lawfully permit corporations, unions and non-profits to influence the outcome of the municipal elections without any of their activities being recorded and reported to Elections BC.

In this podcast we also explore the growing 'capacity crisis' facing our local school district. Global TV news did a great segment on this topic and it helped to raise awareness of the problem facing our students, parents and teachers.

Of course, what would an episode of For the Record be without playing the ever-popular "Bell or Buzzer" which features four amazing trivia questions about New West. Tune in to see if Rich was able to get all of the answers right!

For the Record is available for download on all major platforms. If you like this episode, be sure to tell your friends and family and get them to follow.

Whether it was skyrocketing parking rates or the impact a lengthy sewer replacement project took on her business, Dunn says it all played a role in helping to keep customers away. She's also concerned with the recent trend to concentrate so many social service providers in the downtown core. She highlights why opening a 'temporary' homeless shelter nearby with only limited hours has actually served to increase street disorder along Columbia Street.

“The city is sending a message to everyone visiting to get in and get out. So how is this ever going to be a tourist destination? It's not,” she said in video she posted on her Instagram account. “So I'm angry. I'm really angry at the city.”

In this exclusive interview, Dunn not only explores the problems plaguing small business owners in New West, but she begins to talk about what some of the solutions might be. We ask her to compare Columbia Street to Vancouver's popular and thriving Commercial Drive in terms of its vibrancy. We explore with Dunn whether there is anything we can learn from their success and apply in New West.

Dunn also responds to some of the vicious online attacks that have been hurled at her since she spoke out and talks about how other small businesses in the area are equally fed up - but frightened to speak out. Joining Dunn on the podcast is fellow Columbia Street small business owner and New West City Councillor Paul Minhas.

We also get to have a bit of fun with our latest edition of Bell or Buzzer!

It's an important interview that's bound to stir up debate, but one you will want to listen to and share with friends and family. This podcast is available for download on all major platforms.

Other topics include a 14% property tax hike over two years; using the Heritage Revitalization Agreement process to protect a non-native tree planted in the 1960s; growing controversy regarding recent appointments to city committees; why an amendment to support additional mental health, drug treatment and rehab failed; a crime and safety report gets submitted to council; our infrastructure deficit grows and much, much more!

You'll want to listen to this latest Council roundup which expands and provides insights into the items raised and debated at New West City Council. You can download this podcast on all major platforms.

What would our podcast be without a distinctly New West themed edition of Bell or Buzzer. Dylan didn't need to call a friend, but you'll have to tune in to find out how me made out! Put in your earbuds, crank up the sound in your car...and get ready for a great discussion with Councillor Kruger.

In this podcast we discuss why a simple motion to visit PoCo and learn how they can increase services while keeping their taxes low - got defeated.

The discussion also focused on the important need for local resident associations to have the funds they need to operate within our various neighbourhoods.

We also play a special "PoCo-themed" extended version of Bell or Buzzer. IMO it's the best edition of BoB so far and you'll want to listen through to the end to find out how Councillor Minhas fared. One question definitely had him stumped!

Our discussion also touches upon some upcoming events focused on childcare, organized sport and the 2nd Annual NWP Spring Fundraiser. Be sure to listen, share and encourage others to do the same.

In her first podcast appearance since being elected, Carlsen sits down to discuss the campaign and some of its more memorable moments. She also talks about the struggles that independent candidates have to win in New Westminster and the advantage of working in collaboration with an elector organization. Carlsen also talks about what some of her key priorities will be when she gets to the School District governance table. It's an interview you won't want to miss!

Some of the topics include the proposed 7.7% property tax increase, the "Dubai Debacle", recovery houses, thumbs down for a new Finance and Audit Committee, Lower 12th Street development, E-bike share, resident association budget increases and a potential Council delegation to PoCo plus much more.

While there are a lot of serious subjects discussed, we also attempt to bring a bit of levity to municipal politics in New West. Be sure to download this latest episode and share it with friends!

What is holding us back? Why is there such a lack of interest in hearing from the subject-matter experts? Annis provides her perspective on this issue as well as an overview of how new provincial legislation will impact Surrey's future housing developments.

This edition also includes clips from interviews host Daniel Fontaine did with CBC, Global TV and CKNW radio. Hope you enjoy this special 'Snow Summit" edition.

The Mayor's recent all expense paid trip to Dubai, United Arab Emirates to attend a conference focused on reducing carbon emissions also featured prominently. To wrap up, we discuss why we stepped out of the chamber this week to allow our colleagues the opportunity to debate - on their own - a war in the Middle East.

It's an interesting episode covering lots of topics with a few auditory twists and additions throughout! Listen through to the end for an interview on CKNW's Jill Bennett Show regarding unanswered questions pertaining to the Mayor's junket to the Middle East.

How will the October 2024 provincial election be impacted by civic issues originating in the Metro Vancouver area? What issues do we both feel will make headlines in Vancouver and New Westminster in 2024? We have a look ahead in our political crystal ball to see what might be shaping civic politics in our respective cities and the region.

If Klassen had to live in another city outside of Vancouver, where would that be and why? We also get to learn an interesting nugget or two about Mike's past life in the film industry! All this and more on Episode 8 of For the Record.

Tourism New West launched a #findphilip campaign and once he was found they got to work using this as a great opportunity to promote our city. Philip is now back in Arizona and in this podcast he reflects back on his recent trip to the Royal City.

For the Record also interviews Allan De Genova, the man behind Honour House. We find out how Honour House is helping first responders and their families as well as how it all got started.

Did you know Honour House almost never came to New West? Yes, it was almost built in another Metro Vancouver city...and you'll have to listen to the interview to find out where!

You'll also want to listen to a quick council roundup where some of the highlights of the recent council meeting are discussed.

NOTE: the views expressed in For the Record with Daniel Fontaine are his own and not necessarily those of New Westminster City Council

Special guests include New Westminster Councillor Paul Minhas, School Trustee Danielle Connelly and Trustee Candidate Kathleen Carlsen.

Property taxes, homelessness and the Dee Beattie affair all make the top 5, but where do they rank? You'll have to download the podcast to learn more.

In Part 1 of this podcast we begin to countdown the top 10 stories that we feel are noteworthy for this year for a variety of different reasons. According to my guests, there were no shortage of stories to choose from!

The panels consists of New Westminster Councillor Paul Minhas, Trustee Danielle Connelly and School Trustee candidate Kathleen Carlsen. Be sure to tune in and reflect back with our panel on 2023...the year where New West generated lots of province-wide media stories!

Tieleman has been politically active for decades and is a life-long member of the NDP. He truly has a unique perspective on politics and you'll want to download this podcast to hear what he has to say!

This podcast also includes an interview the hosts at Rock 101 did with host Daniel Fontaine regarding the Price is Right's Philip and some possible 'trash talkin' of New West! It's a funny segment that reveals who was really trash talkin whom!

In this episode, we sit down with trustee candidate Kathleen Carlsen to find out why she thinks Community First 'needs a time out' in the upcoming by-election. We also learn some interesting details about Carlsen's past which ends the show on a positive 'note'!