Episode 116: Special Edition - New West simply can't afford 4 more years of Patrick Johnstone and Community First
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
🎙️ For the Record - Special Midweek Edition
Johnstone Announces Mayoral Run - A Closer Look at the Record
This week’s episode of For the Record drops on a special Wednesday release, following Mayor Patrick Johnstone’s official announcement that he'll be seeking another term as mayor of New Westminster. NO APRIL FOOL's!
Co-hosted by Daniel Fontaine and Paul Minhas, the episode takes a closer look at what that announcement means - and what voters may want to consider as the city heads toward the October 17th civic election.
🗳️ 12 Years In… Asking for 16
The podcast opens with discussion around Johnstone’s time in office - 12 years on council - and his decision to seek another four-year term to continue advancing his ideology and agenda.
The hosts ask a central question:
What remains to be accomplished after more than a decade in office - and is a new direction worth considering?
💸 Taxes, Spending & Affordability
A major focus of the episode is affordability, including:
30%+ property tax increases over this current term in office alone!
Spending priorities that many residents are questioning
Whether current financial decisions align with the pressures facing households today
🚲 Priorities at City Hall
The discussion also explores broader priorities, including:
Heavy investments in bike lane infrastructure versus basic core services
High-profile spending decisions such as the $500,000 “mushroom wall” in Queen's Park
Ongoing concerns about aging infrastructure and service delivery
🏛️ Leadership & Accountability
Fontaine and Minhas also examine:
Questions around public consultation and responsiveness
The decision to support a “Sue Big Oil” initiative and related costs
Past controversies, including the business class all expenses paid Dubai trip and Ethics Commissioner findings
🏙️ Growth, Development & Regional Role
The episode also touches on:
Major development approvals, including Columbia Square
The city’s role at Metro Vancouver and whether stronger advocacy is needed
The long-term impact of growth on infrastructure and livability
⏳ Looking Ahead to the Election
As the campaign season begins to take shape, the hosts frame the conversation around choice - encouraging listeners to reflect on the past, assess current priorities, and consider what direction they want for New Westminster moving forward. A choice of status quo - or positive change to make progress in our city.
🎧 For the Record is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.
📣 This is shaping up to be a pivotal election - and the conversation is just getting started.
