Episode 120: Punch McLean Tribute, Pay Hikes for Politicians, Property Tax Revolt, $3.5M for Sports and Recration & More

Episode 120: Punch McLean Tribute, Pay Hikes for Politicians, Property Tax Revolt, $3.5M for Sports and Recration & More

Episode 120 of For the Record features Councillors Daniel Fontaine and Paul Minhas reviewing key decisions and debates from the June 8 New Westminster City Council meeting, along with the latest developments at Metro Vancouver and growing concerns about affordability in the city. The episode begins with a detailed discussion of the City’s remaining $3.5 million Growing Communities Fund allocation. Fontaine and Minhas explain why they support a proposal that would dedicate $1 million toward immediate local sport and recreation priorities while reserving $2.5 million for the future redevelopment of the Grimston Park lacrosse box and multi-sport facility. The hosts argue that community sports organizations have been waiting years for investments and that funding should benefit residents across the city as soon as possible. The conversation then turns to Fontaine's motion honouring legendary New Westminster Bruins coach Ernie “Punch” McLean. Fontaine provides an update on efforts to recognize McLean’s contributions to the city and discusses the growing support for a permanent tribute celebrating one of New Westminster’s most iconic sports figures. Recreation infrastructure remains a major focus throughout the episode, including discussions about the future expansion of Queen’s Park Arena, upgrades to local lacrosse facilities, and ways to improve recreational opportunities for families. The hosts also review a motion from Councillor Tasha Henderson aimed at providing free swimming lessons for children. While supporting the goal of expanding access, Fontaine and Minhas discuss concerns that simply increasing waitlists without creating additional capacity may not solve the underlying problem, drawing comparisons to a similar debate currently taking place in Vancouver. The hosts also examine a report outlining an automatic retroactive 2.2 per cent pay increase for elected officials that took effect on January 1 under existing council policy. While emphasizing that the increase is automatic and not the result of a council vote, Fontaine and Minhas question the timing given that New Westminster property taxes have increased by roughly 30 per cent over the past four years. Infrastructure and neighbourhood improvements are also discussed, including calls to accelerate road paving projects in the West End and ongoing efforts to ensure the təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre remains welcoming and accessible for families. Listeners will also hear highlights from Daniel Fontaine’s appearance on The Mike Smyth Show, where he discussed ongoing concerns surrounding Metro Vancouver governance, spending, and accountability. The hosts review the latest regional issues and what they could mean for taxpayers across the Lower Mainland. The episode concludes with a discussion about property tax increases and the feedback council members continue to receive from residents struggling with affordability challenges. Fontaine and Minhas share concerns they have heard from homeowners, seniors, and families facing rising costs. The podcast wraps up with recognition of Pride Month and National Indigenous History Month, while also celebrating the completion of the New West Progressives election team, with 13 candidates now confirmed for the upcoming civic election. It's another wide-ranging episode covering local government, sports and recreation, taxpayer accountability, infrastructure priorities, and the issues shaping New Westminster’s future.

Episode 119: Ernie 'Punch' McLean Celebrated, $235M for Metro, NW CityMatters Big Success, $557 for 3 Minute Meetings and more!

🎙️ NEW EPISODE OF FOR THE RECORD 🎙️ This week, Councillor Paul Minhas is joined by guest co-host NWP school trustee candidate Liz Fajber while Daniel Fontaine is away - and there is LOTS to cover in New Westminster! 👀 🗳️ The episode kicks off with a recap of the NW City Matters community forums and online survey. From business issues to schools and community priorities, hundreds of residents turned out to participate, and more than 500 people have already completed the survey! The deadline to provide feedback is May 31st, and both Liz and Paul talk about how the input received will help shape the New West Progressives platform moving forward. 💰 Next up: Metro Vancouver and the ACCIONA settlement. The hosts preview Daniel Fontaine’s appearance on the Jas Johal Show discussing the massive North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant controversy and the shocking reality that taxpayers are still on the hook for nearly $3.9 BILLION. 😳 📺 The podcast also features discussion about Daniel Fontaine’s appearance on Global News with Jordan Armstrong regarding Metro Vancouver directors being paid $557 each for a meeting lasting only 3 minutes and 40 seconds. Total taxpayer cost? About $7,200. Liz and Paul question whether the system needs a serious rethink. 🏒 One of the most emotional segments focuses on New Westminster Bruins legend Ernie “Punch” McLean. The hosts reflect on the recent celebration held in his honour at Queen’s Park Arena and discuss the motion coming to council that would see a statue erected outside the arena recognizing his legacy. Tragically, Punch passed away in a car accident just days after the event. The episode includes reflections on his incredible impact on hockey and the community. ❤️ 🏫 Liz Fajber also discusses local school issues, including the disappointment that New Westminster received no provincial playground funding while neighbouring communities did. The hosts also tackle concerns surrounding school transportation and bus service uncertainty in Queensborough. 🎉 The show wraps up with a roundup of community events including: 🌸 May Day 🎺 The Hyack Parade 🏡 The Heritage Homes Tour 🛍️ Queen’s Park garage sale 🧒 Youth Awards 🟥 Red Dress Day Another packed episode covering local politics, schools, taxpayer accountability, sports history, and community life in New Westminster. 🎧 Listen now to For the Record!

Episode 118: New West Infrastructure Deficit, Metro Madness, Density Dollars + much more

Episode 118 of For the Record features Councillor Paul Minhas alongside guest co-host Ray Porcellato, NWP candidate for City Council, filling in for regular co-host Daniel Fontaine. 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.

Episode 117: Sidewalks less accessible, Tiny Homes delegation, Canada Games Pool Replacement, Metro in a Mess + more

🎙️ For the Record – Episode 117 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.

Episode 116: Special Edition - New West simply can't afford 4 more years of Patrick Johnstone and Community First

🎙️ For the Record - Special Midweek Edition 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.