Episode 64: Lunar New Year!, Bon Voyages, Budget Bylaw, Brodie Bombs, Metro Mess

Happy Lunar New Year! This week on the podcast FTR features special guest Jiayi Li who brings New Year greetings on behalf of the NWP to all New West residents.First up is a discussion regarding the West End and Massey Victory Heights resident association meetings. Resident associations play a critical role in the community and a couple of them had special meetings this week to discuss a range of neighbourhood topics.The 23% property tax hike (2023-2025) keeps inching closer as the Budget By-law is about to be voted on at New West City Council on January 27th. It's forecast that this term of Council could result in a 30% tax hike - a record for the Royal City. Mayor Johnstone's trip to Dubai in 2023 has triggered a review of the City's policies when it comes to international travel. A staff report is making some significant recommendations regarding the manner in which overseas trips are approved and reported to the public.Metro Vancouver's ongoing PR disaster continued unabated this week with revelations that spending on per diems and meeting fees is ballooning 'out of control'. Listen to several interviews and media reports on this topic which are bound to increase your blood pressure!Coun. Paul Minhas will have his "Canucks on Columbia" motion debated at the next Council meeting. But will our cherished Canucks be seeing some post-season play this year? Only time will tell.Minhas is also bringing forward a motion to install special Remembrance Day sidewalks in New West. It's likely to get the support of Council and be implemented later this year.Upcoming events include the Jan 30th Councillor Cafe at the Holy Trinity Cathedral at 514 Carnarvon St from 7-9 pm. No RSVP is required. Don't forget the Burger and Beer @ Begbie's event on Feb 6th. Tickets are $30 and it's almost sold out.If you enjoy For the Record with Daniel Fontaine and Paul Minhas be sure to tell your family and friends to follow us too! This podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and all major platforms.