Episode 57: Limiting your Motions, 2nd & 6th, Vape Shops, Army & Navy Shelter, Rocketing Rent

If a staff recommendation is passed on Monday, November 18th, the days of elected officials being able to introduce at least one motion per meeting will be gone. The new rules which could take effect in 2025 would limit opposition councillors (and other councillors too) to a maximum of 5 motions per year. Will this measure which could limit local democracy be approved by a majority on Council - or not?What do you consider as temporary? Do you think 6 years qualifies? Council is being asked on Monday to approve another 'temporary' three-year permit for the homeless shelter located at the former Army and Navy site on Columbia. That means the 'temporary' shelter will be open for at least six years - and any prospect of the Army and Navy building being redeveloped will be shelved, yet again. Just when will all that supportive housing promised by Victoria arrive?Parents with children who are attending Herbert Spencer Elementary and Glenbrook Middle School have had enough! They want improvements made at the 2nd Street and 6th Avenue intersection to help reduce the risk to pedestrians. A previous motion to review this intersection for possible capital upgrades was initially approved - then eventually defeated by the Community First majority. Will the parents be able to convince Community First to reconsider their decision?The rain held off long enough to hold a dry and incredible Remembrance Day ceremony at New West City Hall. Not all members of Council attended and it caught the attention of a number of attendees. But the mood at the Legion was uplifting with an amazing performance by the Royal Westminster Regiment Band. We provide you with an exclusive performance!Is the rent charged in New Westminster really the 5th highest for any midsize city in B.C.? You bet it is. So why then are developers of market rental provided with so many special breaks by City Hall? Shouldn't that be reserved for developers of below market and more affordable rental units?Time to review some of the upcoming events! We do an event roundup covering off some planned townhall forums and Councillor Cafes being planned for early 2025.If you like this podcast, be sure to tell your friends, family and colleagues. That's how we help to spread the word.