Episode 30: Funding partners MIA, Metro Vancouver governance, summer patios & outdoor events red tape

In this episode of For the Record, we cover a number of topics and issues of interest to New West residents and business owners. 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.