Episode 119: Ernie 'Punch' McLean Celebrated, $235M for Metro, NW CityMatters Big Success, $557 for 3 Minute Meetings and more!

🎙️ NEW EPISODE OF FOR THE RECORD 🎙️

This week, Councillor Paul Minhas is joined by guest co-host NWP school trustee candidate Liz Fajber while Daniel Fontaine is away - and there is LOTS to cover in New Westminster! 👀

🗳️ The episode kicks off with a recap of the NW City Matters community forums and online survey. From business issues to schools and community priorities, hundreds of residents turned out to participate, and more than 500 people have already completed the survey! The deadline to provide feedback is May 31st, and both Liz and Paul talk about how the input received will help shape the New West Progressives platform moving forward.

💰 Next up: Metro Vancouver and the ACCIONA settlement. The hosts preview Daniel Fontaine’s appearance on the Jas Johal Show discussing the massive North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant controversy and the shocking reality that taxpayers are still on the hook for nearly $3.9 BILLION. 😳

📺 The podcast also features discussion about Daniel Fontaine’s appearance on Global News with Jordan Armstrong regarding Metro Vancouver directors being paid $557 each for a meeting lasting only 3 minutes and 40 seconds. Total taxpayer cost? About $7,200. Liz and Paul question whether the system needs a serious rethink.

🏒 One of the most emotional segments focuses on New Westminster Bruins legend Ernie “Punch” McLean. The hosts reflect on the recent celebration held in his honour at Queen’s Park Arena and discuss the motion coming to council that would see a statue erected outside the arena recognizing his legacy. Tragically, Punch passed away in a car accident just days after the event. The episode includes reflections on his incredible impact on hockey and the community. ❤️

🏫 Liz Fajber also discusses local school issues, including the disappointment that New Westminster received no provincial playground funding while neighbouring communities did. The hosts also tackle concerns surrounding school transportation and bus service uncertainty in Queensborough.

🎉 The show wraps up with a roundup of community events including:

🌸 May Day

🎺 The Hyack Parade

🏡 The Heritage Homes Tour

🛍️ Queen’s Park garage sale

🧒 Youth Awards

🟥 Red Dress Day

Another packed episode covering local politics, schools, taxpayer accountability, sports history, and community life in New Westminster.

🎧 Listen now to For the Record!