Episode 43: Fontaine becomes Acting Mayor, paving 6th Ave, celebrating Aug 24, NewsWestminster roundup

In this week's edition of For the Record with Daniel Fontaine, special guest Coun. Paul Minhas makes another appearance to talk civic politics in New Westminster.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.