Episode 111: Downtown Density Debate, Making Metro Accountable, Upzoning 900 Single Family Lots, NWP Public Forum + more
For the Record with Daniel Fontaine & Paul MinhasShow Notes
🎙️ For the Record – Episode 111 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 p
More from For the Record with Daniel Fontaine & Paul Minhas
🎙️ THE FINAL EPISODE...FOR NOW. 🎙️ After more than 120 episodes over the past three and a half years, For the Record is taking a short hiatus as New Westminster heads into the October 17 civic election campaign. In this special season finale, Councillors Daniel Fontaine and Paul Minhas sit down for one last conversation before the podcast pauses for the duration of the election campaign. 💚 NEW WEST WORKS The hosts revisit the New West Progressives' vision for creating safer, cleaner and more welcoming neighbourhoods through investments in community safety, cleaner streets, support for local businesses, and initiatives aimed at making public spaces more vibrant and inviting. 🏃 ACTIVE NEW WEST Daniel and Paul also discuss the party's plans to expand sport, recreation and fitness opportunities throughout the city. From rebuilding the New Westminster Pier to investing in parks, trails and community recreation facilities, the conversation focuses on creating a healthier, more active city for residents of all ages. 🌉 One discussion asks an important question: If White Rock was able to rebuild its iconic pier so quickly after storm damage, why is New Westminster still waiting more than six years later for construction to begin on its own pier? 🗳️ 100 DAYS TO GO With July 9 marking exactly 100 days until Election Day, the hosts reflect on what promises to be one of the most closely watched municipal elections in New Westminster's history. The episode also examines the emergence of a new civic political organization, BEE Good New West, and what another political party could mean for voters and the campaign ahead. 🎧 Finally, Daniel and Paul reflect on the journey For the Record has taken over the past three and a half years. From weekly council discussions and interviews with community leaders to conversations about the issues shaping New Westminster, the episode serves as both a look back at the podcast's evolution and a thank you to the many listeners, guests and supporters who have helped make more than 120 episodes possible. ❤️ While For the Record will take a short break during the civic election campaign, this final pre-election episode provides a fitting conclusion to three and a half years of local conversations, community stories and civic discussion. Thank you for listening - and best wishes to everyone participating in the 2026 civic election.
🎙️ BIG ANNOUNCEMENT FROM FOR THE RECORD 🎙️ After more than 120 episodes over the past three and a half years, For the Record will be taking a short hiatus as the October 17 civic election campaign gets underway. In this special episode, co-hosts Councillors Daniel Fontaine and Paul Minhas announce that there are only two episodes remaining before the podcast pauses, with the final pre-election episode dropping on July 9 - exactly 100 days before Election Day. To mark the occasion, Daniel and Paul take a look back at some of the many memorable conversations that have made For the Record a trusted source for civic discussion in New Westminster. 🎤 This week's episode features highlights from past guests, including: 🍀 Jennifer Mackie, owner of Kelly O'Bryan's Restaurant & Pub 🏢 Rich Patterson, local business owner and community advocate 📰 Bill Tieleman, political commentator and public affairs strategist 🙏 Jag Sall, community leader from the Queensborough Gurdwara 🎖️ Terry Leith, President of Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 2 in New Westminster ...along with reflections on the many people who have helped make the podcast what it is today. 📺 The episode also includes Daniel Fontaine's recent Global News interview highlighting his third annual Metro Vancouver Mayors' Salary Report, which sparked significant public discussion around transparency and accountability in regional government. 📱 Daniel and Paul also celebrate an incredible 30 days of engagement for the NWP, with hundreds of thousands of Facebook and Instagram views as residents continue engaging with local issues and the future of our city. ❤️ Above all, this episode is a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has tuned in, shared an episode, appeared as a guest, or supported For the Record over the past three and a half years. There's still one more episode before the podcast takes its election break, so be sure to join us next week for our final show before we hit the campaign trail. 🎧 Thank you for listening - and we'll see you next week for one last episode before For the Record takes a short pause.
🎙️ NEW EPISODE OF FOR THE RECORD 🎙️ This week, Councillor Paul Minhas is joined by NWP council candidate Karima Budhwani for a discussion focused on one of the issues residents consistently raised during the recent What We Heard community listening sessions: public safety, neighbourhood cleanliness, and community well-being. 🗣️ WHAT WE HEARD The hosts begin by reflecting on the completion of the NWP listening sessions held throughout New Westminster. Hundreds of conversations helped shape the party's priorities and provided valuable feedback from residents on the issues that matter most in their neighbourhoods. 🚨 SAFER, CLEANER & MORE WELCOMING NEIGHBOURHOODS The centrepiece of this week's episode is a detailed discussion of the New West Progressives' newest platform announcement. Highlights include: 👮 12 new Community Enforcement & Safety Officers on foot and bike patrols 🧹 Tripling investment in the successful "I's On The Street" street-cleaning program 🩺 Exploring a Car 87-style mental health response partnership 🎭 Bringing more buskers, public art and cultural activity to commercial districts 🏪 New micro-retail opportunities on Columbia Street 🗑️ 100 additional waste and recycling bins 🚉 Cleaner and safer SkyTrain stations 🎨 A new TAG Team to aggressively tackle graffiti 💡 Improved lighting in key public spaces 🤝 A Crime Reduction and Public Safety Task Force 🚔 A commitment that the Mayor seek appointment as Chair of the New Westminster Police Board Karima and Paul discuss how these proposals are designed to support public safety while also investing in prevention, neighbourhood vibrancy, cleanliness, and support for vulnerable residents. 🏫 AIR CONDITIONING IN SCHOOLS The episode also reviews a recent NWP news release highlighting concerns about the lack of air conditioning in local schools and the challenges students and staff face during increasingly hot weather events. 🏛️ COUNCIL PREVIEW The hosts look ahead to the upcoming New Westminster City Council meeting, including discussions surrounding: 💡 Heritage lamp replacements in Massey Victory Heights 👨👩👧 Family-friendly improvements at təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre 🏊 Free swimming lessons for children 🏗️ The next phase of the Royal Towers redevelopment proposal 💰 A report outlining funding received from senior levels of government 🎧 If you're interested in public safety, community livability, local politics, and the future direction of New Westminster, this is an episode you won't want to miss. #NewWestminster #ForTheRecord #NewWestProgressives #PublicSafety #LocalGovernment #NWP #NewWestPolitics
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.
🎙️ 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!