Episode 103: Exclusive interviews with Ray Porcellato (GM for Salmonbellies) and Maryann Morrisson, Volunteer Chair with the NWP + more

🎙️ For the Record – Episode 103Two Special Guests, City Matters Momentum & A Look at New West’s Rising CostsEpisode 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 PorcellatoCouncillor 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 CupThe state of local sport and recreation facilities in New WestminsterWhat more can be done to support youth athletes across lacrosse, hockey, soccer, and moreHow investments in sport and recreation in New West can reduce crime in our cityRay’s longstanding involvement in local sports gives this segment real depth and community insight.👥 Exclusive Interview: Maryann Morrison: NW City Matters UpdateCoun. 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 MattersWhat she heard from residents at the first Massey Victory Heights eventWhy neighbourhood-driven engagement will be vital in the months aheadHer update offers listeners an inside look at how the initiative is evolving.🎥 Interview Excerpt: Daniel & DanielThis 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 yearsA 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.