VancouverNewsSuspect arrested in connection to machete incident at restaurant in New Westminster, B.C. By Mina Kerr-LazenbyPublished: May 05, 2025 at 3:54PM EDT
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The son of a man killed in a shooting in east Vancouver a month ago has been charged with murder
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We apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Play VideoArticle contentVancouver police began a homicide investigation after reports of a shooting at a residence near North Kootenay and Dundas streets on April 6
was taken into custody by VPD officers in Maple Ridge on April 29
Prosecution Service has since charged Harrison with second-degree murder
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Steve Addison said no charges have been laid against the other person arrested last month
Homicide investigators have taken over the case of a 25-year-old man who disappeared a week ago under suspicious circumstances
Navdeep Dhaliwal was reported missing after last being seen at a home in Surrey
“He maintained regular contact with friends and family and therefore even this seemingly brief period without contact was highly unusual,” said Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) Sgt
Because of the “suspicious nature” of Dhaliwal’s disappearance
“Investigators are actively examining the last places he was seen
canvassing the neighbourhood and speaking with his family
“We are working diligently to follow the evidence and it is crucial that those with information about Mr
Dhaliwal come forward to speak to investigators.”
Fong warned the public not to “spread speculation or jump to conclusions.”
IHIT investigators are in regular contact with Dhaliwal’s family and “continue to work tirelessly to get to the truth of what happened,” said Fong
A suspect is under arrest after a machete-wielding man tried to rob a restaurant in New West
New West police officers got a 911 call “describing an armed man threatening staff inside a restaurant in the 700-block of 12th Street.”
they learned that a man armed with a machete screamed demands at staff before fleeing the scene.”
A suspect was arrested soon after in the area of 8th Street and 8th Avenue
Charges of robbery and assault with a weapon are being recommended to Crown prosecutors
“Our thoughts are with the staff who experienced this frightening incident,” said Sgt
“We’re proud of the swift response by our officers
Thom also thanked the person who called 911 after seeing the restaurant staff in need of help
They’re being offered help from the victim assistance unit
jruttle@postmedia.com
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Police in New Westminster shared an update on the bear that was on the loose in Sapperton Park Thursday afternoon
“The bear wandered towards the Brunette River”
the New Westminster Police Department said
Hi #NewWest
the bear wandered towards the Brunette River
We waved goodbye and we are now tending to other calls for service
the NWPD said the bear was first reported around 11:30 a.m
The NWPD issued a public advisory at noon on social media
telling the public not to approach the animal
“Our officers are keeping tabs on his movements,” police said
adding that the Conservation Officer Service was en route to the park near East Columbia Street and Sherbrooke Street
Police declined to disclose the bear’s species
The federal council and the NDP caucus decided on the local MP
The Surrey Police Service (SPS) is turning to the public for help
Jendhel May Sico is described as a person who lived her life to the fullest
she was celebrating the Lapu-Lapu Day festival with those she loved most -- her cousin
Killed in a car-ramming attack on Saturday
she was celebrating the Lapu-Lapu Day festival with those she loved most -- her cousin
speaks to reporter Kier Junos about the day their lives changed forever
Huge crowds lined the streets of Vancouver to cheer on 25,000 runners making their way around the city for the 53rd annual BMO Marathon on Sunday
Andrew's Saturday in honour of the victims of the deadly Lapu-Lapu tragedy last week
The accused person in the deadly car attack at the Lapu-Lapu Day block party in Vancouver on April 26th appeared at the provincial Court of British Columbia
30-year-old Kai Ji Adam Lo appeared via video in court
Four people remain in critical condition in hospital and another two remain in serious condition
five days after the deadly attack at the Lapu-Lapu Day festival in Vancouver on April 26
Jack Rabb has more on the efforts to support the victims
Listen to NewsRadio Vancouver live anytime and get up-to-the-minute breaking-news alerts
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New Westminster—Burnaby—Maillardville 2025 federal election live results. Browse live results for all 343 ridings
193 of 193 polls are reporting as of 4:22 p.m. Follow our full coverage of the 2025 federal election
193 of 193 polls are reporting as of 4:22 p.m. Follow our full coverage of the 2025 federal election
is projected to win in New Westminster—Burnaby—Maillardville
Sawatzky has 19,547 of 55,720 votes (35.08%)
is in second place with 17,624 votes (31.63%) and Indy Panchi
Julian has represented the riding since 2004
New Westminster—Burnaby—Maillardville used to be named New Westminster—Burnaby
The riding’s boundaries were updated for the 2025 federal election
24,909 voters cast ballots at advance polls
Looking for another riding? Here are the full results for the 2025 federal election.
The Liberals have 169 races called in their favour
They have 8,535,128 votes and 43.69 per cent of the popular vote
The Conservatives have 144 races called in their favour
They have 8,059,938 votes and 41.26 per cent of the popular vote
The Bloc Québécois have 22 races called in their favour
They have 1,232,095 votes and 6.31 per cent of the popular vote
The New Democrats have seven races called in their favour
They have 1,231,198 votes and 6.3 per cent of the popular vote
The Greens have one race called in their favour
They have 243,471 votes and 1.25 per cent of the popular vote
There were three independents and four vacancies in the 338-seat Commons
the Commons has grown by five ridings starting with this election
This article was automatically generated using data provided by Canadian Press and will update as riding results become available
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New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville is getting its moment in the national spotlight
CPAC — the Cable Public Affairs Channel — is visiting the riding on April 20 and 21 as part of its coverage of the April 28 federal election
While in New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville
the CPAC team will be speaking with community members about key election issues
CPAC’s Campaign Politics’ coverage is doing a deep dive into what it considers some of the most closely watched races in Canada.
communications and marketing coordinator with CPAC
said reporter Laura Di Battista will be in New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville to follow around the candidates as they campaign throughout the riding
She will also be speaking with voters to learn which issues are important to them
“This riding has been considered a safe NDP seat not just for years but for decades,” Ombe said in an email to the Record
“The new political reality — where we have a new Liberal leader
and a persistent concern with affordability
combined with an NDP leader who has failed to inspire Canadians — has left the party’s fortunes in this riding vulnerable
at least according to the latest polling.”
The New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville segment is expected to air on April 23
New Westminster’s federal boundaries have shifted through the years
as a result of changes recommended by the electoral boundaries commission
New West has been part of a riding that included parts of Burnaby and/or Coquitlam
The 2025 federal election marks the first time electors will vote in the newly created New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville riding
While NDP candidates, including Dawn Black (1988 to 1993 in New Westminster-Burnaby and 2006 to 2009 in New Westminster Coquitlam), Fin Donnelly, and Peter Julian (2004 to 2025), have represented New Westminster in Ottawa since the 2000s
the city has not always been represented by the NDP
In the New Westminster Coquitlam-Burnaby riding
Paul Forseth was elected MP as a Reform Party of Canada candidate in 1993
Most recently, in the Sept. 20, 2021 federal election, Julian (NDP) cruised to victory with 24,054 votes
followed by Liberal candidate Rozina Jaffer (11,685 votes)
Conservative candidate Paige Munro (9,710)
and People's Party candidate Kevin Heide (1,840)
Five candidates are vying to be the MP for New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville
The Queensborough Residents' Association’s all-candidates meeting is living up to its name — all five New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville candidates will be attending this week’s meeting
president of the residents’ association
confirmed all five candidates will be in attendance at Wednesday’s event
After each candidate has three minutes to address the audience about why they are running
organizers will pose a series of questions to candidates; each candidate
In an effort to ensure candidates were prepared for the meeting
organizers provided them with the questions ahead of time
Following the question-and-answer section of the meeting
each candidate will be given two minutes for wrap-up comments
“This should take us to about 8:30/8:40 p.m.,” said a notice about the meeting
“There will then be time to mingle with residents to 9 p.m.”
VancouverNewsBear spotted in New Westminster park has wandered off, police say By Andrew WeichelPublished: May 01, 2025 at 4:43PM EDT
New Westminster police are investigating after a man was found dead Tuesday afternoon.
Police say they got a call about a body found downtown near Stewardson Way and Quebec Street around 1:15 p.m.
“We’re working to determine what the circumstances were surrounding this man’s death,” said Sgt. Justine Thom in a statement Wednesday.
“It could be several weeks before the circumstances of his death become clear.”
Forensic investigators were also on scene to collect evidence.
If you have information about the discovery, you’re asked to call the New Westminster Police Department at 604-525-5411.
The New Democratic Party selects B.C. MP Don Davies as interim leader. The federal council and the NDP caucus decided on the local MP.
The Surrey Police Service (SPS) is turning to the public for help.
Jendhel May Sico is described as a person who lived her life to the fullest. On Saturday, April 26, she was celebrating the Lapu-Lapu Day festival with those she loved most -- her cousin, AJ Sico, and...
Jendhel May Sico is described as a person who lived her life to the fullest. Killed in a car-ramming attack on Saturday, April 26, she was celebrating the Lapu-Lapu Day festival with those she loved most -- her cousin, AJ Sico, and her boyfriend. AJ's partner, Vanessa, speaks to reporter Kier Junos about the day their lives changed forever.
Huge crowds lined the streets of Vancouver to cheer on 25,000 runners making their way around the city for the 53rd annual BMO Marathon on Sunday. Jack Rabb has the story.
A memorial mass was held at St. Andrew's Saturday in honour of the victims of the deadly Lapu-Lapu tragedy last week.
The accused person in the deadly car attack at the Lapu-Lapu Day block party in Vancouver on April 26th appeared at the provincial Court of British Columbia. 30-year-old Kai Ji Adam Lo appeared via video in court. Kier Junos reports.
Four people remain in critical condition in hospital and another two remain in serious condition, five days after the deadly attack at the Lapu-Lapu Day festival in Vancouver on April 26. Jack Rabb has more on the efforts to support the victims.
Now New and Improved! Listen to NewsRadio Vancouver live anytime and get up-to-the-minute breaking-news alerts, traffic, weather and video from CityNews Vancouver anywhere you are – across all Android and iOS devices.
Police have released a sketch of a suspect in an alleged sexual assault in Abbotsford
a woman was waiting for a friend in the 33900-block of Gladys Avenue when a man driving a white Tesla Model 3 approached and asked her to get into his car
She was assaulted then driven to the 600-block of McKenzie Road
where she managed to escape and get help from bystanders
The suspect is described as a heavy-set Hispanic male in his 30s to early 40s
Investigators from the Abbotsford police sex crimes unit say it appears the suspect was not known to the victim and there have been no arrests
investigators also released a composite sketch of the suspect in hopes someone might recognize him
Investigators are asking for witnesses who were in the Gladys Avenue area between 4 and 6 a.m
in the McKenzie Road-Vye Road area between 5 and 7:30 a.m.
or anyone with dashcam footage from those areas around that time to call the sex crimes unit at 604-859-5225
Mounties in Prince George say several people have been arrested after police seized guns and drugs from a residence earlier this month
officers searched a residence in the 300-block of Nicholson Street as part of a continuing investigation
Investigators say the residence has been the subject of several probes in the past year
Several people were arrested inside the residence
Those arrested were released later that day
and potential charges related to the drugs seized are pending
A New Westminster man has been found guilty of several offences
after a woman was violently attacked inside a suite two years ago
Police said Wednesday that 34-year-old Ryan Jensen has been found guilty of aggravated assault
one count of killing or injuring an animal and two counts of breach of a release order
a police officer was flagged down on Royal Avenue by a woman suffering numerous cuts
She told police she was violently assaulted inside a suite on Agnes Street
She was taken to hospital and Jensen was arrested a short time later
The major crime unit of the New Westminster Police Department said Wednesday it is investigating after a man’s body was found in the city’s downtown on Tuesday
Police received a phone call about the body at about 1:15 p.m
The major crime unit is working in partnership with the B.C
Coroners Service to find out what caused the man’s death
“It could be several weeks before the circumstances of his death become clear.” said Sgt
Justine Thom in a news release on Wednesday
A man responding to a person “in distress” watched in disbelief as the other man drove away in his car
New Westminster police responded to a 911 call on April 10 from a man saying a stranger had just driven off with his vehicle
According to a New Westminster Police Department news release
the caller told officers he was driving down Ewen Avenue when he saw a pedestrian who was waving his arms
“Believing the pedestrian was in some need of assistance
the driver pulled over and exited his vehicle,” said the news release
“The caller shared that was when the pedestrian ran to his vehicle and drove away.”
New Westminster Police Department officers located the vehicle a short distance away (but no driver) and began collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses
“The victim went into this thinking they were trying to help someone who appeared to be in distress,” said Sgt
“This individual took advantage of that kindness
and we’re urging anyone with information to come forward immediately.”
The suspect is described as South Asian in appearance with a beard
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call the New Westminster Police Department at 604-525-5411 and reference file number 25-5904
VancouverNewsPolice investigating fatal crash in New WestminsterBy Todd CoynePublished: April 14, 2025 at 4:27PM EDT
New Westminster police are searching for a driver suspected of a hit-and-run crash that sent a woman to hospital late Tuesday night
The crash happened near the intersection of Boyd and Gifford streets in New Westminster around 11:20 p.m
they found the injured woman in her vehicle at the scene
The suspect vehicle was parked further down the street
“The driver of that vehicle had fled the scene,” said police
The woman was taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries
Police are now looking for the driver of the 2001 grey Toyota Tacoma suspect vehicle
If you witnessed the event or have dashcam footage from the area you are asked to contact New West Police Department at 604-525-5411
Four generations of families. Over 400,000 patient encounters. More than 1,000 babies delivered. Those are just some of the milestones Dr. Walter Rebeyka has achieved throughout his 46-year career as a family physician in New Westminster.
But it’s the relationships he’s developed with patients that Rebeyka will miss most when he retires and hangs up his lab coat on April 30.
“I'm going to miss telling stories and hearing stories and being involved with people and helping them problem-solve their issues,” he says. “I'm going to miss that involvement; I know I am.”
Born at Royal Columbian Hospital, Rebeyka grew up in New Westminster’s West End — in a house just four blocks away from the medical clinic where he’s worked for more than half of his life.
“At an early age, and I wouldn't even remember exactly when, I just thought: ‘I want to be a doctor,’” he says.
After attending Lord Tweedsmuir Elementary School, Vincent Massey Junior High and Lester Pearson High School, Rebeyka started his quest to become a doctor by getting a bachelor of science in chemistry at the University of British Columbia. When he didn’t get one of the seats in UBC’s medical program, he attended the Royal College of Physicians in Dublin, Ireland.
“I started in September of 1971 and finished in June of ’77,” he says. “It was a six-year course. Then I would come home every summer and work.”
Rebeyka “absolutely loved” attending medical school in Ireland, where one-third of the class was Irish, one-third was students from underdeveloped countries, and one-third was students from developed countries.
“What I tell everybody is I received an education and the schooling,” he says. “The schooling was the knowledge and the information necessary to be a doctor. The education was a life experience of hanging out with people, on a very close, intimate basis for six years. There were people from basically all corners of the world.”
After completing medical school in June 1977, Rebeyka was among the 12 students accepted into the family practice medicine program at UBC. That two-year internship program included further study in “the Big 4” — medicine, surgery, obstetrics/gynecology, and pediatrics.
In those days, Rebeyka says some doctors would go into family practice for a few years and later do a fellowship in an area where they wanted to specialize. Like other family doctors of that era, Rebeyka did surgeries such as cesarean sections, appendectomies and tonsillectomies — but he always wanted to be a general practitioner.
“I never had any interest other than being a family doctor,” he says. “I just wanted to look after people and help people.”
While attending a family practice conference in Vancouver, Rebeyka bumped into some doctors from New West. In July 1979, he began a six-month locum at their office.
“They said, ‘Look, things are working out. You seem to be fitting in. Why don't you just stay?’” he recalls. “So, I thought about it for a bit, and I said, ‘Well, it's working for me; I enjoy this. Sign me up.’ The rest is history.”
And it’s in that location, just a few blocks from his childhood home on Ninth Avenue, where he has practiced medicine for more than four decades.
“I used to go up to my mom's for lunch all the time,” he says of his early years at the office.
Initially, Rebeyka was one of four physicians working in the office.
“It was just humming, absolutely humming,” he says. “Everybody was as busy as busy could be.”
Seeing patients in the office, doing rounds at Royal Columbian and St. Mary’s hospitals, making house calls, and fielding calls around the clock were all part of the job.
“We were delivering babies, so it was busy,” he recalls. “In those days, everybody was attached to their obstetrical patients; so, unless you were away on holiday, you were basically on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”
In addition to his patient duties, Rebeyka served as chief of staff at St. Mary’s Hospital for several years before it closed. He was also involved in professional associations, including Doctors of BC (then known as the BC Medical Association) and the Westminster Medical Association.
At one time, five doctors were working out of the office at the corner of 20th Street and Eighth Avenue.
Rebeyka’s retirement marks the end of an era, as all the other physicians have either long since retired or left the practice.
From common ailments to rare conditions, Rebeyka has seen it all.
“It’s always something different,” he says. “So, we have absolutely no idea what's coming in.”
Long gone are the days when doctors prescribed remedies for ailments and patients accepted their advice without question.
“We have to give people that opportunity to be the master of their destiny,” he says. “Because the patient, they control the outcome and the narrative in the room.”
Patients may control the narrative, but Rebeyka was the storyteller who helped them navigate their medical journeys.
“As time went on, I realized not only was I a healer, but I was also a teacher,” Rebeyka says. “And one of the ways to teach is by example and by story, by analogy and metaphor; people can relate to that.”
Rebeyka says he used stories and metaphors to explain medical concepts to patients.
“The stories are a way to teach and help people understand,” he explains. “Because to a certain degree, in the examination room, we talk in a foreign language.”
Fancy terms don’t do patients any good if they can’t understand the information they’re being given, Rebeyka says.
“I would say you need to be a little bit smarter after every exam that we've had, or I have failed you,” he says. “I not only have to heal you, but I have to educate you.”
Watching his patients grow up and seeing people’s lives evolve — that’s been the highlight of Rebeyka’s career.
“I've got a huge number of three-generation families, but not an insignificant number of four-generation families,” he says. “So, I've had the greatest privilege of watching people grow up and mature and develop but I've also had the privilege of watching families evolve.”
“That might not mean a lot to some folks,” he says, “but I just think it's pretty flat-out neat.”
Rebeyka says it’s been a privilege to be part of people’s lives, through all their ups and downs, happy and sad times.
While there was a time when fewer doctors were going into family practice, Rebeyka is hopeful that is changing. He notes the province has introduced initiatives aimed at making family medicine more attractive, both professionally and economically.
Rebeyka says it’s been comforting and reassuring to have heard that many of his patients have already found new physicians.
Rebeyka is grateful for having had the opportunity and the privilege of being engaged in people's lives for 46 years.
With Rebeyka’s 77th birthday coming up in July, he’s looking forward to hanging up his stethoscope and spending time at home with his family. But he also knows he’ll miss the patients, colleagues and peers, and office staff once he closes the doors to his practice.
For Rebeyka, being a doctor was never work.
“Work is a four-letter word, and most bad words have four letters. So, I've had the greatest privilege, I've never worked for 46 years — I’ve always come to the office; I never considered it work,” he reflects.
“I've had my days, I've had my challenges, I've had my upsets, I've had my joys, but I've never worked; I've always come to the office.”
A tour of downtown New Westminster with Coun
has the dubious distinction of being the second-densest city in Canada
It recently surpassed Montreal for the number of people per square kilometre and is now second only to Vancouver
Fontaine points to the many concrete residential towers that have been erected in the past few years on Carnarvon Street
which he calls “Carnarvon Canyon” because of its wind-tunnel effect
This corridor of the city’s hillside downtown isn’t only without cafés and retail outlets
Scores of trees planted by tower developers died
basically because they have been enveloped in the shadow of the buildings
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Yet the issue of distressed trees downtown helps illustrate how massive population growth and highrise development
doesn’t necessarily lead to more attractive
While many neighbourhoods of New Westminster remain relatively quiet and low-density
the most intensely growing portion of the 16.5-square-kilometre city is downtown
I’m opposed to bad development,” Fontaine said
“They wouldn’t even build some of this in modern-day Russia.”
New West isn’t alone in struggling with growth
cities now account for half of Canada’s 10 densest cities
New West had 5,052 people per square kilometre
That compared with Toronto at 4,427 and Montreal at 4,833
New Westminster has expanded by 29 per cent in the past decade
Last year saw it densify further to 5,917 residents per square kilometre
That makes it one of the most-close-packed cities in North America
which is the 10th-densest city in the U.S.
has fewer than 3,500 people per square kilometre
Fontaine believes the city that has been his home for 25 years is poised to soon become No
It’s expanding at twice the rate of Vancouver
with the support of a majority on New West city council
is also pushing for about 50,000 more people to move in in the next decade or so
Why has New Westminster undergone such growth
Many are drawn to a place where they may be able to get around without a vehicle
are keen to construct towers in a transit zone that allows them to provide fewer parking spaces
Provincial NDP policy is also making the already busy
traffic-congested south of New West even more vulnerable to meteoric development
Bill 47 has forced Metro Vancouver’s city councils
to give “automatic approval” to towers of 20 storeys near SkyTrain stations
who has been on council for just over two years
regrets that a majority of New Westminster councillors have long been ready to give developers even more height
There is only one elementary school for New West’s downtown core: École Qayqayt elementary
When it was rebuilt about a decade ago the school board immediately had to add portables
The grey huts take up what should have been outdoor playing area
“New Westminster has a portables-to-student ratio of 6.79-per-1,000,” Lee said
plans are underway for up to 30,000 more people in a massive cluster of new highrises around the 22nd Avenue SkyTrain Station
which is currently surrounded by low-rise homes
What do residents get out of living in the second-densest city in Canada
they’re being strapped with taxes “that have gone through the roof.”
is that Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon has set down aggressive new housing supply targets that must be met by each B.C
A significant portion of the blame can be laid at the feet of Ottawa
which has been setting record-high immigration targets without consulting with
the municipalities that must absorb newcomers
local governments have to increase taxes just to keep afloat.”
dtodd@postmedia.com
Work on the new Uptown Plaza may be causing traffic jams today
but it’s envisioned to be a gathering space for community members when construction is complete
Work on the permanent Uptown Plaza on Belmont Street and the Sixth Street public realm improvements began at the end of February and is expected to take about six months
is taking place on Sixth Street (between Belmont Street and Sixth Avenue) and on Belmont Street (between Sixth and Seventh streets)
“The Uptown Plaza and Sixth Street improvements will transform Sixth Street between Belmont Street and Sixth Avenue
and the east portion of Belmont Street into a vibrant
and welcoming space for residents and visitors to Uptown,” said Erika Mashig
key improvements of the Uptown Plaza include:
“Community input between 2021 and 2023
has been essential in shaping the final design,” Mashig said
“This project implements recommendations of the Uptown Streetscape Vision and aligns with the city's master transportation plan and Seven Bold Steps for Climate Action.”
Work on the Uptown Plaza is being done in three phases:
“While we endeavour to minimize disruptions
there may be disruptions of varying degrees at different phases of the project to continue allowing the safe movement of pedestrians and vehicles
and to ensure the safety of construction crews,” Mashig said
“Key priorities will be maintaining access to transit and businesses in the area
as well as keeping buses and general traffic moving through Uptown
throughout the duration of the project.”
has been relocated north to Princess Street to accommodate the new Uptown Plaza’s pedestrian-oriented streetscape
“This new bus stop at Princess Street will be rebuilt with a wider sidewalk
and trees as part of the long-term design,” Mashig said
When construction of the new Uptown Plaza began at the end of February
some residents were surprised to see the previous street trees removed
an arborist’s assessment found that the existing 21 trees were nearing the end of their lifespan and would not survive the construction
The city stated the new trees are better adapted to climate change and urban conditions
and improved soil and growing conditions will help them thrive
said the work being done on this part of Sixth Street does not includes bike lanes
Cyclists will continue to share the road with motor vehicles
Some residents have questioned what construction means to annual events in the Uptown
and the Uptown Live and the Recovery Day festivals
“We are in discussion with Hyack Parade organizers and are expecting the parade to continue as planned,” Anderson said in a statement to the Record
“The block of Sixth Street that is under construction will have restricted viewing opportunities
but the remainder of the parade route will be unaffected
it will be up to the organizers to decide whether they would like to propose any adjustments to the parade in light of the construction.”
the city has been notified that Uptown Live won’t be happening this year; organizers
are working on plans for continued activations in the Uptown through the summer
“We expect construction to be complete around the usual time of Recovery Day,” he said
“and will work with the organizers once we have confirmation of their plan to hold the event this year.”
The City of New Westminster first began creating pedestrian-oriented spaces on Belmont Street nine years ago
the city created a temporary parklet that included an artificial lawn where people could play games and sit in Adirondack chairs
as well as a wood decking area featuring bistro tables
Located next to the Tim Hortons on Belmont Street
that space included movable tables and chairs and planters to buffer the space from the vehicular traffic on Belmont Street; at that time
Belmont Street was changed from two-way to one-way traffic
some area residents expressed concern the parklet would exacerbate already existing nuisance behaviours and crime (such as drug dealing) on Belmont Street
the city received a petition signed by 120 residents
businesses and business patrons expressing "distress" over the activities taking place in the parklet and seeking action to address their concerns
Those complaints included late-night gatherings
the city concluded the parklet needed to be redesigned
The newly designed space featured a smaller deck area and an expanded greenspace
The movable tables and chairs were replaced with fixed seating and the concrete barriers around the parklet were replaced with tree planters
council supported a “refresh” of the space on Belmont Street
That included painting of the pavement and the installation of picnic tables
Those interim works were considered temporary until a permanent uptown streetscape was constructed
council endorsed the Uptown streetscape vision and in November 2021
the city began engaging with the community about public realm design elements proposed on Sixth Street
from Sixth Avenue to Belmont Street.)
The streetscape improvements on Belmont Street
Sixth Street and Sixth Avenue — the work that is now underway — is part of the Sixth Street Great Street initiative
which envisions a people-centred public realm
“The city has been implementing public realm improvements on Belmont Street since 2016
a partial street closure and culminated in a full street closure and temporary plaza in 2023,” Mashig said
“The interim plaza served as a valuable opportunity to test concepts and gather community feedback
which has directly informed the design of the permanent Uptown Plaza.”
“The current painted asphalt surface of the interim plaza will be replaced with banded concrete paving that seamlessly transitions from the adjacent sidewalks,” Mashig said
the permanent plaza design includes seating
and provisions for small-scale community events and markets.”
Note: City staff say the design details have evolved since these illustrations (shown here) were prepared
but they still reflect the general outcomes of the project — wider sidewalks
The plaza space on Belmont Street will be somewhat more open than the rendering suggests
with the intent to make the space more flexible and to enable small-scale public events
VancouverNewsNew Westminster teacher identified as one of 11 killed in Filipino festival tragedy By Mina Kerr-LazenbyPublished: April 28, 2025 at 1:02PM EDT
VancouverNewsSuspect in alleged voyeurism incident at park in New Westminster, B.C., sought by policeBy Mina Kerr-LazenbyPublished: April 29, 2025 at 10:30AM EDT
VancouverNewsMajor Crime Unit investigating after man found dead in downtown New WestminsterBy Ian HollidayPublished: April 30, 2025 at 3:11PM EDT
I’m named after my grandfather Jacob Sawatzky
a Mennonite farmer who fled Stalin’s regime in Ukraine to build a new life in Canada
His father and many relatives were persecuted and sent to forced labour camps
never to return—part of the millions who suffered under Soviet rule
His story shaped my values and taught me to act when I see a problem
I earned a bachelor of science in neuroscience from UBC and was preparing to begin a master’s in counselling psychology
Mental health and addiction are deeply personal causes—issues that have touched many people close to me
That’s why I’ve helped raise over $140,000 for the Canadian Mental Health Association
Do you live in New Westminster-Burnaby-Coquitlam
I was born and raised just across the bridge in Surrey
and building strong relationships in Burnaby and New Westminster—communities I plan to call home
I know these challenges affect everyone—from young people just starting out to families trying to stay afloat
I’ve experienced these pressures firsthand and understand how urgently we need practical
Burnaby and New Westminster deserve a representative who’s present
I’m committed to being that voice—for families
and everyone working hard to build a good life here
What makes you the best candidate for New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville
Burnaby-New Westminster is a growing region that deserves its fair share—whether it’s infrastructure
A career politician who’s always been on the outside can’t deliver that
We need someone who will be part of government and get things done
Our generation is facing unprecedented challenges—from housing and affordability to mental health and climate change
We need a voice at the table who will live with the consequences of these decisions for decades to come
I’ve spent years organizing local initiatives
supporting artists and musicians across Burnaby
I’m not running to climb a political ladder—I’m running to listen
and to fight for real progress in a community that …
What are the Top 3 issues in this federal election
The top 3 things that come up over and over are affordability
and infrastructure that keeps up with how fast we’re growing
Affordability is hitting people from all sides: housing
it is hard to imagine owning a home or staying in the community you grew up in
That’s why I support building more homes
and protecting the programs families count on
People tell me they don’t feel safe on the SkyTrain or in some areas at night
I’ve seen how mental health and addiction affect people
it’s important this riding has access to community centres
and making sure our neighbourhoods actually work for the people living in them
I’m running because I believe young people deserve a real voice in shaping the future
Many Canadians are deeply concerned about the ongoing threats of annexation and tariffs from U.S
How would you and your party deal with this situation
Only Mark Carney and our Liberal team have a plan to stand up to Trump and protect our sovereignty
Canadians cannot trust someone who calls Canada “broken” to stand up to Trump
We as Liberals know that when dealing with a bully like Donald Trump we cannot stand back
That means investing in our military and building it strong
What would your party do to address housing affordability for residents in New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville
Housing affordability is one of the top concerns I’m hearing at the doors in New Westminster–Burnaby–Maillardville
People are worried about making each month’s rent
and young families being priced out of the communities they love
A Mark Carney-led Liberal government has a bold plan to tackle the housing crisis
We’ll double the rate of homebuilding to 500,000 new homes a year by fast-tracking permits
and working directly with cities and provinces to deliver real results
We’ll eliminate the GST on first-time home purchases under $1 million
I know what it’s like to feel locked out of the housing market
That’s why I want to bring new energy
and a strong voice for affordability to Ottawa
what would you and your government do to protect Canadian jobs and ease the financial burden on consumers
Canadians are right to be concerned about the return of tariffs under a second Trump presidency
and the financial pressure it would create for workers and families across the Lower Mainland can’t be ignored
Mark Carney has made it clear: every cent of revenue the government collects from retaliatory tariffs will go directly back into protecting Canadian workers
That means targeted support to keep people employed
and ease the financial burden on families already feeling stretched
We need a government that’s proactive and unflinching when it comes to defending Canadian jobs
and I believe Mark Carney is that kind of leader
His experience on the world stage gives me confidence that we’ll be ready to handle economic threats
As a young candidate who will live with the long-term consequences of these decisions
I believe this is about protecting our future
How will you and your party work to strengthen or change the Online News Act to ensure Canadians in communities of all sizes continue to have access to independent
A free and independent press is essential to a healthy democracy
This election is shaping up to be a choice between Pierre Poilievre and Mark Carney
I’m proud to stand with Mark because he understands the importance of strong institutions and a free press in protecting our democracy
The Liberal Party has a long history of supporting Canadian journalism
We are the party that stood up to big tech and demanded they compensate our news media for their content
In a time of growing disinformation and division
and the role journalists play in keeping our country strong
The community can reach me anytime at [email protected] or find me on social media at voteforjake2025
Editor's note: The Record/Burnaby NOW/Tri-City News sent this questionnaire to all candidates in New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville
Candidates were given an April 14 submission deadline
Ellipses (…) have been used to indicate responses exceeding the word limit provided to candidates for each of the questions
it’s because an excavator struck a gas line on Sixth Street
Crews from New Westminster Fire and Rescue Services responded to an incident on Sixth Street
an assistant fire chief with New Westminster Fire and Rescue Services, said the fire department and Fortis are attending an incident on Sixth Street
“It is a fairly significant gas line right in front of 534 Sixth St.,” he said
One of the excavators had burst the line.”
Matson said firefighters are on scene making sure the area is safe and ensuring there are no ignition sources nearby
so it does smell like gas for sure.”
Sixth Street was closed to traffic and pedestrians between Fifth and Sixth avenues
When speaking to the Record shortly before 11 a.m.
Matson said Westminster Centre was open but businesses on the west side of Sixth Street were temporarily closed for safety reasons. He said Fortis had just arrived at the scene
“Fortis … is assessing how fast they can shut this line,” he said
The incident occurred at the site where construction is underway as part of the Sixth Street public realm improvements
the New Westminster Police Department issued a news release stating it had closed Sixth Street between Sixth Avenue and Fifth Avenue due to a gas line rupture
and it is anticipated the road will remain closed for several hours
Police are asking people to avoid the area,” said the NWPD
“Officers thank residents and motorists for their patience
An update will be made once Sixth Street has reopened.”
FortisBC said its crews had the gas under control as of 11:15 a.m
It expects to complete the repairs by 2:30 p.m
corporate communications manager for FortisBC
said New Westminster’s fire and police departments had closed one part of Sixth Street
“It is now reopened to single-lane traffic,” she said
“Local businesses that were asked to keep their windows closed can operate as usual.”
which is affecting two commercial businesses
“These will be restored as soon as our crews complete the repairs,” she said. “We thank residents in the area for their patience as our crews work to complete the necessary repairs safely and as quickly as possible.”
New West residents are opening their doors to help show their neighbours how to make their homes more climate friendly
The Climate Friendly Homes Tour is taking place in New Westminster on Saturday, April 26 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. It’s free, but preregistration is required to visit some of the residences on the tour
The Climate Friendly Homes Tour is organized and hosted by the Community Energy Association
Several tours are happening around the province; BC Hydro supports all tours
Here in New West
the tour is getting additional support and promotion from the City of New Westminster’s climate action division and Energy Save New West
At least five homes will be participating in the free tour (and there’s still time for homeowners to sign up)
the New Westminster Climate Action Hub is further supporting the local tour through three climate-adapted/biodiverse homes on the tour
The hub has also organized sustainable homes information sessions for these specific properties
(Registration is only required for these three homes because of the info sessions.)
and inspire community members on a broad range of climate topics
“We want this event to be very inclusive for everybody – people that live in apartments; people that live in condos,” she told city council at its April 7 meeting
we will be having resources – something for everybody.”
“We'll also be talking about or having resources for different strategies for staying safe in heat events,” she said
“There will be resources for gardening
including gardening on balconies or any shared spaces
and also include one New West resident's experience of leveraging their balcony to keep their condo cooler.”
Secured bike storage will be provided at three sites for any attendees who bike to the event. HUB Cycling is hosting a free bike tour of the properties, which also requires registration
Lewis said community members can also attend information sessions on a variety of topics
“We're very pleased with the experts that we have lined up to share their information,” Lewis said
“Numerous other resources will be incorporated too
where attendees can get information about topics including biodiversity
Details about the info sessions and a map of the tour can be found online
“By participating in the Climate Friendly Homes Tour
attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the positive impact changes to the home can have on the environment
as well as their own well-being,” said the event’s website
“Whether you are a homeowner looking to make improvements
a renter interested in adopting green habits
or simply an enthusiast curious about the latest advancements in climate-friendly technologies
this tour has something for everyone.”
The New Westminster Police Department says two men have been arrested after a carjacking last week.
a driver called 911 and reported two unknown men forced him from his car and drove away after he was stopped along the roadside at Winthrop Street and McDonald Street at roughly 8:45 p.m
Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit and the Lower Mainland Integrated Police Dog Service assisted the New Westminster Police Department in recovering the vehicle and arresting two suspects in Surrey the same night.
“This was a team effort to put a stop to these thieves," NWPD spokesperson Sgt
Andrew Leaver said in a news release.
“Criminals should know that we’re coordinated
and we’re watching the moves they make.”
Police add one of the suspects was discovered to be breaching multiple court-ordered conditions and also had outstanding warrants for his arrest.
NWPD says the investigation is ongoing and charges are being considered
At least four candidates will be vying to be the next member of Parliament for New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville
these are the candidates who had announced they would be running in the April 28 federal election
Elections Canada had posted no names of New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville candidates
The nomination process for candidates closes on Monday
and Elections Canada has pledged that a complete list of confirmed candidates would be available on Wednesday
The Record will be sending out questionnaires to all candidates
Stay tuned for their responses in the weeks ahead
New West residents will get at least one chance to hear what their federal elections candidates have to say about the issues
The Queensborough Residents' Association is holding an all-candidates meeting for the federal election candidates in the New Westminster- Burnaby-Maillardville riding on Wednesday
the QRA said it has been having challenges contacting candidates to invite them to attend the all-candidates’ meeting
only Peter Julian has confirmed his attendance at the meeting
Candidates can reach the QRA at [email protected]
Downtown residents will get to hear from at least one of the candidates running in New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville at their next meeting
The New Westminster Downtown Residents’ Association is hosting a Q&A with incumbent MP Peter Julian — and potentially other candidates in the riding — at its next meeting
The Q&A will be followed by the association’s AGM
Registration is required for this event
New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville — not Chilliwack-Hope — is where Jake Sawatzky is running as the Liberal candidate
the Liberal Party issued a notice stating Sawatzky had been acclaimed as the party’s candidate in Chilliwack-Hope
That news release is no longer available online — after it was determined that the Chilliwack-Hope riding’s Liberal team was already working on plans to secure a candidate
the Liberal Party of Canada said the notice about Sawatzky running in Chilliwack-Hope “was posted in error” and confirmed he’s running as the Liberal candidate in New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville
Sawatzky said he’s honoured and excited to be the joining Mark Carney and the Liberal Party of Canada as its local candidate
A springtime theatrical production and farmers markets are just two of the signs that spring is in the air in New West
The Royal City Musical Theatre Society takes to the stage for its annual production at Massey Theatre — just one of many events worth checking out in New Westminster this month
The Record had rounded up some not-to-be-missed April events — and there’s something for folks of all ages and interests
Brow of the Hill Residents Association meeting
The Brow of the Hill Residents’ Association’s April meeting includes a visit from Metro Vancouver representatives who will talk about the Annacis water supply tunnel project and answer questions
Brow of the Hill residents are invited to meet their neighbours and listen to speakers
Mayor Patrick Johnstone is hosting a series of neighbourhood walks as part of the WALK30 Challenge. Today’s route will be a gentle walk along the Queensborough riverfront along South Dyke Road
Uptown Swing Collective hosts the Everyone Can Jazz Jam
where attendees can learn about swing jazz music and how to play jazz music together
with enthusiastic and experienced facilitators
It’s a weekly drop-in event where participants play music in a group (small and large ensemble) and participate in a jazz jam
Participants under 15 years old are welcome to join with parent supervision
Spark Vitality is hosting The M Factor: Shredding the Silence On Menopause event
It features a viewing of the one-hour documentary film
followed by a Q&A with guest speakers who will share insights
tips and stories about this transition
Reading Theatre features a reading of Michel Tremblay’s Les Belles-soeurs (John Van Burek and Bill Glassco’s English translation). Led by senior artist in residence Allan Morgan, this community program invites people to take part in live play readings or just sit back and enjoy the reading
The New Westminster Police Department is holding an information session for folks interested in a career in policing
New West Farmers Market features produce
Fraser River Discovery Centre and the New Westminster Photography Club are hosting a workshop where you can learn how to make the most of your smartphone camera's tools and capabilities
and composition and understanding photo editing
The workshop includes a presentation and a photo walk with coaches. It’s intended for participants 16 years of age and older and is targeted at beginners in smartphone photography.
a handmade market hosted by the Arts New West
features a selection of unique and diverse goods from designers
Open Art Studios at Braid Studios provides community members with a chance to visit 20 working studios and get a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process
and seasonal crafts are among the offerings at a Spring Craft Market
A free photo booth will be set up at the market
Relive the Music of the '50s and '60s
Relive the Music Diner gives folks a chance to relive the music of the 1950s and 1960s through a jukebox musical concert with a band and singers
Anand: A Soul’s Journey Home — a night of performing arts
This event features a variety of local artists
The New Westminster Horticultural Society’s April meeting features Sage Kosa
who will speak about "decolonizing our gardens" — just in time for spring gardening
Empower Through Music Society is hosting an evening of music and storytelling featuring inspiring performances from young artists who have found their voice through music
as well as special guest appearances from established musicians
New Westminster Downtown Residents' Association public meeting
The New Westminster Downtown Residents’ Association is hosting a Q&A with MP Peter Julian (and potentially other election candidates in the 2025 federal election)
The New Westminster Public Library’s new climate-themed movie series includes the screening of Food Synergy
which examines food waste (mostly in B.C.) — and the environmental
and economic benefits of addressing this issue
It will be followed by a discussion about the issues raised
Free popcorn is provided — but bring your own bowl
Comedy Exposed is an evening of stand-up comedy and burlesque
Performers featured at this event include Alannah Brittany (Just for Laughs
Mayor Patrick Johnstone is hosting a series of neighbourhood walks as part of the WALK30 Challenge. Today’s walking route of the West End and Connaught Heights neighbourhood will focus on what’s envisioned for the area around the 22nd Street station in the future
Today’s walk is about 30 minutes/two kilometres and has some grades
The New Westminster Police Department is teaming up with the Electronic Recycling Association (ERA) to offer free electronics recycling
It’s giving residents a chance to get rid of unwanted electronics — while protecting their electronic data and personal information
ERA will data clean donated items and then recycle or refurbish the equipment
Household appliances are not being accepted
but donated devices can include: desktop computers
All passwords and security features must be removed before being donated
Shop or sell children’s and baby items such as toys, clothing, and equipment at today's children's swap meet
(Eight-foot tables are available to rent for $25.)
The Ukrainian Easter Market is a celebration of authentic Ukrainian cuisine
an award-winning contemporary roots and blues singer-songwriter
It’s been described as “rootsy blues with a tinge of soul and country.” She’s a two-time Juno Award nominee and the 2019 Western Canadian Music Awards winner for Blues Artist of the Year
Creating a monotype collagraph/relief print workshop
Arts New West is hosting a free art workshop with Latin American Women's Art Collective "Hijas del Sol" members Priscila Holtz
Damarys Sepulveda and Mónica Moscoso
who will help attendees create a monotype collagraph/relief print
featuring faculty members from the Vancouver Academy of Music
This concert features music by Boccherini and Schoenberg
Mayor Patrick Johnstone is hosting a series of neighbourhood walks as part of the WALK30 Challenge. Today’s walking route will be through the Massey-Victory Heights neighbourhood
giving attendees a chance to learn more about New Westminster’s official community plan and the parks and recreation department’s new People
Today’s route is about 25 minutes/1.5 kilometres and has some steep grades
leads a curated sound bath meditation experience of connection and awareness through deep listening
Gene Kelly: Hollywood’s Dashing Dance Auteur
Classic film scholar Michael Van Den Bos showcases the work of the multi-talented Gene Kelly
showcasing some of his performances from classic movie musicals in today’s Hollywood’s Dashing Dance Auteur presentation
Bee's Knees Burlesque at the Flapper Lounge featuring Belle Jumelles
Fraser River Discovery Centre is hosting its Spring Salmon Eggs-travaganza
and crafts to help folks learn about these fish.
Ubuntu Celebrations is hosting an Easter Bunny Brunch and Family Fun Day that include a catered lunch (featuring a mix of American and African-inspired breakfast and lunch dishes and desserts)
and family games and activities (including a spoon race
Attendees should bring baskets for collecting eggs and cameras for taking photos
WALK30 Walk – Queen’s Park and river views
BEST (Better Environmentally Sound Transportation) is hosting a guided walk as part of this year’s WALK30 Challenge
This 4.1-kilometre walk takes about 60 minutes and has about 80 metres of elevation
It’s free and open to all ages; furry companions welcome
Councillor Café – Queen's Park Edition
Councillors Daniel Fontaine and Paul Minhas are hosting another edition of their Councillor Café events
giving community members to drop in and discuss issues about the Queen’s Park neighbourhood (and beyond)
Transforming Climate Emotions into Climate Action
If thinking about climate change cause you anxiety, sadness or fear, this session will provide tools to turn those feelings into action
Part of Earth Week at the New Westminster Public Library
this event is presented by Christine Coles with Space and Beyond Climate Action
The City of New Westminster’s climate action team will give an overview of climate action work at the city
including actions being taken to make civic buildings and transportation greener
At this New Westminster Public Library Earth Week event
city staff will also provide suggestions for what residents can do and give participants information about the development of the climate change adaptation and resilience plan
The New Westminster Public Library’s Earth Week program includes a workshop
where people will learn about compost and find out to use it to improve the health and productivity of your garden and help the climate by capturing more carbon in your soil
It’s being led by Jo Tobias from RootShoot Soils
who specializes in natural management of soil health
Vagabond Players Presents The Revolutionists in which “four beautiful
badass women lose their heads in this irreverent
girl-powered comedy set during the French Revolution’s Reign of Terror.”
The New Westminster Chamber of Commerce is hosting April Beer Friday at the Legion
The Legion is open to members and non-members and provides a self-service bar that accept cash
Royal City Musical Theatre presents 9 To 5
The Royal City Musical Theatre Company presents 9 to 5
where three female coworkers — office manager Violet
and sultry secretary Doralee — concoct a plan to get even with their “sexist
In this humour- and music-filled production
they live out their wildest fantasy — giving their boss the boot
and taking control of the company that had always kept them down
The Fraser Valley Antiques and Collectibles Club is hosting its 30th annual Vintage and Collectibles Sale in New West
Climate friendly homes tour/sustainable home info sessions
The Climate Friendly Homes Tour is a chance to see climate-friendly homes
chat with experts and homeowners who have successfully implemented sustainable living practices in their homes and learn about technologies and techniques that improve home comfort and climate friendliness
and other experts will be on site at some locations to share knowledge and answer questions
and powerful guitar riffs have garnered him over 20 awards and nominations
Amabilis Singers present a night of beautiful music and good vibes at their spring concert
Garey Carlson from HUB New West is leading a fun and practical information session on planning your next holiday by bike
It’s part of the New Westminster Public Library’s Earth Week programming and is presented in collaboration with HUB Cycling’s New Westminster chapter
New Westminster District and Labour Council is hosting its annual observance of the Day of Mourning for workers killed and injured on the job
The New Westminster Police Department has issued an alert after about 30 people received calls from a scammer who is spoofing its non-emergency number
The police department is warning the public that its non-emergency number (604-525-5411) is currently being spoofed by fraudsters who are contacting people with the objective of obtaining their personal information
“The fraudsters are using technology to make it appear as if the incoming call is from the New Westminster Police Department,” said a NWPD news release
the fraudster may fabricate an officer’s name and badge number to attempt to gain trust and obtain sensitive personal information.”
The New Westminster Police Department is recommending people protect themselves by taking the following these steps:
we’ve had callers as far away as Toronto asking to confirm if the call made to them was real,” said Sgt
“Approximately 30 people this morning have called us about suspicious calls from someone claiming to be one of our officers.”
The New Westminster Police Department is monitoring the situation and asks community members to share news about this scam with friends and loved ones
and a community walk — those are some of the offerings around town this weekend
Why not kick off the long weekend a day early and enjoy some of Thursday’s offerings in New West
Here are the Record’s top picks for April 17-20
Kick off the long weekend early at the New West Farmers Market where you’ll find all sorts of produce and prepared foods — just in time for Easter
Marvel at the moves of Gene Kelly when classic film scholar Michael Van Den Bos showcases some of his performances from classic movie musicals in his presentation: Hollywood’s Dashing Dance Auteur
Get mesmerized by the magic of Alex Zander and Billy Hsueh at Cocktails and Conjuring
This event is held on the first and third Friday of each month
Learn about the iconic salmon at Fraser River Discovery Centre’s Spring Salmon Eggs-travaganza
This weekend’s event includes salmon-themed activities
Check out the offerings at New West Craft
It features a selection of goods from designers
Hop up to Queen’s Park for an Easter Bunny Brunch and Family Fun Day
It includes a catered lunch (featuring a mix of American and African-inspired breakfast and lunch dishes and desserts)
Explore New Westminster during a free guided walk being hosted by Better Environmentally Sound Transportation as part of this year’s WALK30 Challenge
BEST’s 4.1-kilometre walk starts at Queen’s Park
At least five candidates will be in the federal election race in the New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville
As of 9 a.m. on Monday, April 7, Elections Canada’s website listed five confirmed candidates in the New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville electoral district:
who had previously been running as the Conservative Party of Canada’s candidate
was ousted as the party’s candidate last week
April 7 is the final day for candidates to file their paperwork with Elections Canada
A full list of candidates across Canada will be available on Wednesday
New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville constituents will get their first chance to hear from some of the candidates this week
At least three of the riding’s candidates will be attending a Q&A with the New Westminster Residents Downtown Association’s this week
Jake Sawatzky (Liberal) and Tara Shushtarian (Green) have confirmed their attendance at the meeting
which will be followed by the residents’ association’s postponed annual general meeting
Attendees are asked to pre-register to ensure they have a seat
The campaign bus for the Conservative Party of Canada’s leader rolled into New West on Sunday morning
leader of the Conservative Party of Canada and the Official Opposition
held a press conference at Anvil Centre on Sunday morning
Poilievre said the Conservatives’ new funding model for drug treatment centres would help 50,000 Canadians get off drugs
He said a Conservative government would also stop federal funding for opioids and safe consumption sites
Poilievre’s press conference took place at 10:30 a.m
New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville NDP candidate Peter Julian and about two dozen supporters gathered for a sign waving event at Hyack Square – across the street from Anvil Centre
The Bun-official burger poll has returned to New Westminster for the April 28 federal election
Burger Heaven Restaurant is once again serving up burgers with a political flavour
Diners can vote for their favourite candidate burger up until April 27
Here are the restaurant’s “tongue in cheek” burger descriptions:
Residents of a New Westminster tower damaged during a major water main break in February are organizing for a potential class action lawsuit
One of the potential claimants insists he’s getting no answers from the city or Metro Vancouver as he tries to recover the costs of having to move out of his suite for much of the past two months
Zoran Filipovic argues he was driven out by a loud generator outside his suite as restoration work has been ongoing at the building on Jamieson Court
something not covered by his insurance company because there was no physical damage to his unit
and we have to sue Metro and the city,” said Filipovic
who says they have a lawyer and are trying to gather more building residents interested in being part of the lawsuit
Filipovic says other residents have also been dealing with losses and costs
and many have yet to move back into the building
and everybody in the building has to fill out a form
but I’m not sure how many people know about it yet because half of the building is still not back.”
14 when a major water main broke by Jamieson Court
and knocking out elevator service in Filipovic’s building
He says he has also faced constant noise from a generator outside his suite
claiming a constant 86-decibel sound has kept him from sleeping and forced him to find accommodation elsewhere
He adds that he and others also have questions about how long repairs took for the water main break and for restoration work at their building
Metro Vancouver suggests it is too soon to talk about liability as it investigates the break
“At this stage the cause of the break is still unknown and we are unable to comment on liability,” said a Metro spokesperson in an email
adding they responded promptly to the water main break and repairs were complete by March 18
“We acknowledge that residents continue to feel the impacts of this incident
and Metro Vancouver is assisting where possible
insurance providers and strata corporations are responsible for leading restoration efforts — which are underway — and for compensation that may be available to insureds under the terms of their policies.”
The statement goes on to say that Metro Vancouver has worked to keep residents informed throughout the process
including hosting eight public information sessions to answer questions and hear concerns
It also indicates the City of New Westminster led the initial response through their emergency services and engineering teams
but New Westminster’s manager of legal services says the city is not at fault
“While the City of New Westminster has engaged in efforts to assist residents affected by the flooding
the City’s position is that the subject water main is owned by and is the responsibility of the Metro Vancouver Regional District
The City denies any wrongdoing and accepts no responsibility for the cause of the burst main water or damages caused by the subsequent flooding event,” he told 1130 NewsRadio
The New Westminster Tennis Club’s clubhouse sustained “significant damage” in a suspicious fire on Thursday night that’s now being investigated by police
an assistant fire chief with New Westminster Fire and Rescue Services
said crews were called to the tennis club in Tipperary Park at 10:26 p.m
he said they could see flames and heavy smoke coming out of the first floor side of the building facing Royal Avenue
The New Westminster Police Department’s major crime unit has taken the lead on the fire investigation and is working alongside its partners at the fire department
“We are committed to finding out how it happened,” said NWPD Sgt
“We’re asking anyone with information
to come forward and help us piece together the events of that night
Your cooperation could be crucial to our investigation.”
Investigators urge residents and business owners in the immediate area to check their surveillance or dashcam footage
for video evidence that may assist with the investigation
Detectives are asking any witnesses who haven’t yet shared with police what they saw are asked to call the New Westminster Police Department major crime unit tip line at 604-529-2430 or send an email to [email protected]
firefighters initiated an exterior attack to knock down the flames; they then entered the building to do an interior attack and put out the rest of the fire
“It was well done by the crews,” he said
“It was a quick knockdown and probably saved the structure as a whole.”
Matson said there was some “fairly significant damage” to the clubhouse
He estimated half of the structure sustained significant exterior damage
Matson said the fire was extinguished within about 20 minutes
but crews officially declared the fire out just after midnight
and there was definitely a good chance that if we didn't get there
the entire building would have been fully involved,” he said
Matson said the fire was contained to the clubhouse structure and did not appear to damage the outdoor tennis courts
He said there were no occupants in the clubhouse or in the area around the facility when crews arrived
there was no injuries to anybody,” he said
“We didn't have any witnesses either
Matson said investigators are currently working to determine the cause of the fire and where it originated
assistant fire chief of community safety and technology
said the cause of the fire is under investigation
“We do not know how long the restorative efforts will take as that assessment will need to wait until the fire investigation is complete,” she said in a statement to the Record
members of the New Westminster Police Department were also assisting at the scene
“It’s routine for our partners at New Westminster Fire and Rescue Services ask us to assist with securing the scene until fencing can be put up,” said Hailey Finnigan
the New Westminster Police Department’s strategic communications coordinator
it provides its members with access to four tennis courts
According to the City of New Westminster’s website
the club’s original courts and club house remained intact until 1982
when the historic clay courts were replaced with four hard-surfaced courts
“Four years later, in 1986, the club house was renovated, and in 1988, lights were added to the courts,” said the website
“A new club house was built in 1996 to replace the original erected nearly 100 years before."
VancouverNewsNew Westminster street open after train derailment By Kaija JussinojaPublished: March 18, 2025 at 11:05AM EDT
A woman’s screams scared away a suspect who was attempting to break into a Glenbrooke North residence
New Westminster police responded to a 911 call from a woman saying someone had tried to break into her home
The NWPD said the caller told police she walked into her kitchen to find a window had been smashed and someone was at her patio door
“The unknown person fled after she screamed,” said a police press release
located in the 900-block of Fourth Street
to search for the individual and process the scene for evidence.”
police have identified a person of interest in this alleged incident
and we understand how deeply concerning this was for the victim as well as the community as a whole,” said NWPD Sgt
“We believe this person of interest may have committed other crimes in the area of Glenbrooke North
We’re asking anyone who witnessed suspicious activity that evening to give us a call; what you saw may greatly assist us with this investigation.”
Anyone noticing any suspicious activity on the evening of April 4 is asked to call the New Westminster Police Department at 604-525-5411
A student with a knife was arrested at New Westminster Secondary School on Thursday morning after officers discharged an Anti-Riot Weapon Enfield (ARWEN)
The New Westminster Police Department said officers responded to a 911 call about a student with a knife at NWSS at about 10:30 a.m
the NWPD said the caller reported that a student with the knife had made comments that caused them concern for the safety of students and staff
officers located a suspect holding a knife when they arrived at the high school
“Police officers provided verbal de-escalation techniques in the hopes the suspect could be safely taken into custody; however
which is a less lethal distance option,” said the news release
“The suspect was taken into custody and the knife seized.”
sustained non-life-threatening injuries that were being assessed at a local hospital
“This could have been an extremely dangerous situation,” said Sgt
officers were able to use their training and experience to resolve this situation safely.”
The Record questioned the police department about de-escalation strategies used by officers at the scene
de-escalation techniques involve a number of different strategies
and giving the person time to process instructions from police,” Leaver said
Leaver said a hit from an ARWEN “mimics the force of a baton strike.”
“It fires plastic bulbs that are approximately four inches long by an-inch-and-a-half wide.”
communications manager for the New Westminster School District
said the incident was handled promptly by the NWPD.
“Although the student did make worrying statements that resulted in NWSS administrators contacting the police
staff and other students were not directly threatened and there is no ongoing safety concern at the school,” he said in a statement to the Record
“The situation was isolated in a classroom.”
Lee said police officers were able to secure the student for their safety and get them the help they needed
“The district would like to take this time to ask that the student's privacy be respected,” he said
“We will not issue further comment.”
The New Westminster Police Department advises anyone who witnessed this incident and feels they would benefit from the support of the Victim Assistance Unit to call 604-529-2525 or email [email protected]
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Rolling hills and a meadow could soon grace the former New Westminster Secondary School site and provide a place for quiet reflection
After a decade of planning, work on a $1-million memorial park on the former New Westminster Secondary School site could begin within months
The New Westminster School district intends to issue a request for proposals in April and hopes to hire a contractor and complete the work this fall
the school district's facilities director, provided the school board with an update on the New Westminster Secondary School memorial site at its March 11 meeting
The memorial park will be built on about eight acres of land that had been used as a potter’s field between 1860 and 1920
It was there that the bodies of poor people
and patients from Woodlands and Essondale (which later became Riverview) were buried
Sikh and Indigenous communities were also buried people on the site
Crowe gave the school board an overview of the “long-awaited” final plan for the memorial park
and signage about the original uses of the land
New Westminster Secondary School was built on the site in 1949
“You'll notice that it's very
to the plan we've shown for several years
that we've had in the works for several years
really struggling to put together a plan that was on budget,” he said
“So that's what's taken so long for us to tweak it and still maintain the integrity of the intent of the memorial park but get it back to budget
And we believe we've accomplished that.”
Crowe said the entrance to the park will be at Eighth and Dublin streets
near the turnaround circle that was located in front of the old NWSS
He said that space is intended to be a “sacred or feature place” in the park and will be the location of a memorial plaque
“They (the berms) will be attractive as well as discourage the kind of uses for this area that are that are not allowed under the Cemetery Act,” Crowe said
“Things like playing fields and soccer pitches and those kinds of things are not allowed under the Cemetery Act
we have to discourage that as much as possible.”
Board chair Maya Russell said community members have questioned why a school district that’s constrained for space and has a 31-acre land deficit cannot use this land for playing fields or portables
Crowe explained that a substantial portion of the site is a designated cemetery
He said the legislation is quite prescriptive about the kinds of uses that can be built over former or closed cemeteries
“That's where the passive park concept comes in
which is what we have created,” he said
“You're allowed to use it for a place of contemplation and a place sort of refuge
But sports fields and things like that are specifically prohibited.”
Crowe said it’s possible to apply to get permission to change the use of the site
but officials in charge of the Cemetery Act have told the district the chances of that happening are “very
very slim” because of the history of this cemetery
“It was and is a major cemetery in the province of British Columbia
and it holds a lot of history,” he said
“There's a lot of people connected to it … including many First Nations folks
as well as Chinese benevolent associations and many others
To convince them of an alternate use of it would be extremely difficult to do.”
Trustee Marc Andres said it’s really exciting to see the project come to completion
I was really surprised to find the number of people's remains who are still interred on this land and will remain interred on there
probably for a very long time,” he said
I think this really meets our goals of this project — being a respectful place where people are going to remember a part of our history that we aren't proud of
Crowe said the school district does not have good information on the number of people still buried at the site
as that information has been difficult to obtain
trees will be surrounded by meadow grass and low shrubs
Benches will provide a place for visitors to sit and enjoy the surroundings
Crowe said the park will not include irrigation
so plantings have been selected with that in mind
“One of the things that we were not to be able to afford is irrigation
There's no water out on this side,” he said
“That's why we're choosing meadow grass and grasses that are drought tolerant.”
Crowe said lighting has been selected that contributes to the “solemn” feeling of the site and follows crime prevention through environmental design principles
“The idea is to try to get enough light without making it look like a carnival
because it's not that type of space,” he said
“But get enough light so that's it safe for people walking through it at night.”
will be doing “a little more grandiose landscaping” to its section of the property
“It will blend in with our space here,” he said
“They haven't finished their actual landscape plan yet
but it will greatly enhance the look that we have.”
“Everybody keeps asking me: ‘Have we maintained the same amount of parking on the site that we've always had?’ And the answer is yes,” Crowe said
which has been the commitment for stalls on the site for many
They've been distributed slightly differently
But the numbers are very much the same.”
Crowe said a plaque with storyboards will be located in the “circle” area of the park that’s intended for gathering
He said the district had input from many stakeholders about the content on the plaques
“We've done our very best to have a meaningful storyboard there
at least for our first phase,” he said
if there's additional funding or additional ambassadors to take over this property
Andres noted there will be ongoing costs to the district associated with maintaining the park
“I do have concerns about the district's capacity to manage costs long term associated with this
have a plan to try to pursue potentially new relationships to maybe share some of those costs now that the park will be completed
and people will be able to see the space.”
New West Schools superintendent Mark Davidson said overtures have been made over time to try and get folks to join the school district in shouldering those costs
people have not been anxious to share the burden with us
the costs of maintaining the space,” he said
“That doesn't mean we wouldn't welcome partners and certainly reach out
Crowe said a chain link fence will surround the park but it will have openings at various spots so folks can access the site and connect to paths
“The reason we want to fence it is to delineate the space as a cemetery
to discourage any notion of people going in there with motorbikes and cars,” he said
we actually have that problem in some of our other schools
really required in order to maintain that segregation
Board vice-chair Cheryl Sluis said “the chain link fence is really throwing me off” and questioned if that could be removed or replaced with something different
Crowe said the chain link fence fits the school district’s budget
“It won't be a chain link fence
and it makes a big difference in terms of looks,” he said
“It’s practical and it's zero maintenance.”
Crowe said the district has been trying to build a park that has extremely low maintenance costs because of the “hits to the operating budget” for maintaining the site
He said the landscape architect is proposing vines that will go through the fence
but it does green the space up as well,” he said
a fence is required under the Cemetery Act
Trustee Elliot Slinn said he hopes the students use the park space when it’s completed
so there’s ownership from students and a respect for what the memorial park is all about
Crowe said the area where the plaque will be located has been designed as a learning space
“It's an extension of the high school
and we're seeing it as that,” he said
“We've been working with some of the high school folks to promote that
What a great place to go to do readings or poetry or those kinds of things
and that was intentionally created that way.”
Trustee Danielle Connelly said an earlier presentation on the park had proposed an area that would almost serve as an outdoor classroom
She expressed disappointment that is no longer include in the park
Crowe said the landscape architect determined that proposal
which was an idea included in one of the early plans
would not work and recommended a continuation of the green space for that area
He said school use is being accommodated in the gathering space where the plaque is being placed
Editor's note: Lourence Singh submitted his Q&A responses on April 15
past the April 14 deadline given to all candidates
I am the son of immigrant parents and migrated to Canada at the age of two
My father of Indian-origin and mother of Filipino-origin met in Hong Kong where I was born in 1995
I graduated from Simon Fraser University in 2019 with a business degree (BBA) and economics minor
I obtained my real estate trading services licence in 2015 and excelled as a Realtor while concurrently completing university
I also volunteered with student-run non-profit organizations and the Beedie Endowment Asset Management (BEAM) Fund
I was awarded the Surrey Board of Trade’s Top 25 Under 25 award for my community involvement and business achievements
I possess international experience having completed both a study abroad semester and HSBC summer banking internship in Hong Kong
I have worked in the private sector at two startups in the consulting
Do you live in New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville
I currently live in the Surrey Central area
While I don’t yet reside in New Westminster–Burnaby–Maillardville
I’ve spent nearly a year getting to know the riding and its vibrant communities since seeking the CPC nomination
I’ve made it a priority to build meaningful relationships with residents
regularly attending events hosted by the New Westminster Chamber of Commerce
with a particular interest in living in downtown New Westminster
I believe it’s important to live among the people I aim to represent
and I’m fully committed to understanding their concerns
local voice who is both accessible and deeply connected to the community I hope to serve
and I’m driven to make a difference through practical
I’ve taken a grassroots approach to my candidacy—putting in the groundwork
I believe this riding deserves a representative who is present
I’m committed to inspiring young Canadians to take part in the political process and to championing policies that reflect the needs of all Canadians from affordability and public safety to opportunity and unity
I’m someone who cares about people and is ready to roll up my sleeves to deliver results for New Westminster–Burnaby–Maillardville
I believe that cognitive empathy and building genuine relationships are keys to excelling as an MP
What makes you the best candidate for New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville?
Canadians are working harder but falling further behind
meaning Canadians aren't getting wealthier
while the cost of everything—from groceries to housing—continues to soar
We need to get Canada’s economy back on track by unleashing the full potential of our resource and energy sectors
and lowering taxes so that families and businesses can thrive
It’s time to restore economic confidence
with B.C.’s crime rate ~40% above the national average
violent offenders being released back onto our streets
not bail" for habitual violent criminals and advocate for tougher sentences for serious crimes like fentanyl trafficking and human trafficking
Everyone deserves to feel safe in their community
Our health-care system is under immense strain
we must ensure Canada has enough qualified medical professionals
I support creating a national standard that allows internationally trained doctors and nurses to prove their qualifications and begin practicing in Canada
This will reduce ER wait times and help more Canadians obtain access to a family physician
I believe Canada must respond to the threats of tariffs and economic pressure with strength and self-reliance
we’ve been overly dependent on the U.S
as our primary trading partner often selling our natural resources
That’s not sustainable for our economy or our sovereignty
and we should be exporting LNG to Asia and Europe which are actively seeking reliable
ethical alternatives to their energy suppliers
This not only strengthens our economy and job market
but also supports our allies and global energy security
One major barrier to Canadian competitiveness is the lack of economic unity within our own country
Intraprovincial trade barriers—such as different standards for truckers or regulations that vary by province hold back our economic potential
I will push for a true internal free market
and I support efforts to remove these outdated obstacles so Canadian businesses can operate seamlessly across the country
we need to take control of our future by building resilient supply chains
I’ll fight for policies that put Canada first through energy independence
What would you do to address housing affordability for residents in New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville?
I believe addressing housing affordability requires a practical
math-based approach: wages must grow faster than housing prices
and homebuilding must outpace population growth
that’s simply not happening—Canada has the fewest homes per capita in the G7
New Westminster is already the second most densely populated city in Canada
which means we need smarter growth—adding amenities like schools
and transit to support livability as density increases
But we also need to look beyond the riding
Neighbouring municipalities with more available land must step up and increase housing supply
The federal government can incentivize this by tying infrastructure funding to housing targets
rewarding municipalities that build and removing roadblocks that delay construction
We also need to streamline permitting processes and reduce bureaucracy that drives up building costs
we must focus on economic policies that raise wages and lower inflation like reducing taxes and controlling government spending so Canadians can actually afford to live in the communities they work in
results-driven policies that put home ownership back within reach
It’s time to restore the dream of home ownership for the next generation
what would you do to protect Canadian jobs and ease the financial burden on consumers?
practical steps to protect Canadian jobs and ease the financial burden on consumers
especially in light of ongoing tariff concerns from our largest trading partner
That means creating the right environment for businesses to invest and expand in Canada instead of relocating elsewhere
A big part of that is axing the industrial carbon tax
which drives up costs for manufacturers and makes it less viable to operate here
Removing it will help keep jobs in Canada and encourage companies to grow at home
We also need to diversify our trade relationships
often selling our resources—like LNG—at a discount
Expanding exports to Asia and Europe will strengthen our economy and reduce our vulnerability to tariffs
I believe in eliminating internal trade barriers
like conflicting regulations between provinces
A truly united Canadian market will increase efficiency
I will push for policies that restore Canadian competitiveness
and ensure that our economic future is built right here at home
It's time to build a more resilient and self-sufficient Canada
How will you work to strengthen or change the Online News Act to ensure Canadians in communities of all sizes continue to have access to independent
I believe in protecting free speech and fostering a competitive media landscape without excessive government interference
The Online News Act has had unintended consequences contributing to the decline of local news access by creating barriers between platforms and publishers
Rather than doubling down on flawed legislation
I support reforming the act to incentivize partnerships between tech platforms and local news outlets
without forced payments or bureaucratic gatekeeping
and support grassroots journalism through tax credits or community-based funding
Local news is essential for democratic accountability
Ottawa must empower communities not control them
balanced approach that respects the free market
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: @LourenceSinghCampaign
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lourencesinghcampaign
We apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Play VideoArticle contentLiberal Wade Chang
a social entrepreneur and newcomer to politics admitted to being “surprised
but not surprised,” by his position on the cusp of unseating incumbent NDP MP Jagmeet Singh
with the NDP leader falling to a distant third place
but not surprised because we were hearing positive feedback on the doorstep,” Chang said
Chang said he got the sense voters were looking for a change and “stronger local representation in Ottawa.”
with 198 of 200 polls reporting and 99 per cent of the vote counted
Chang led with 21,136 votes to second place Conservative James Yan at 19,436
People’s Party candidate Richard Farbridge took just 495 votes
longtime NDP caucus stalwart Peter Julian fell to second place in his race
who took over the nomination just before the Elections Canada deadline was in third place
With 192 of 193 polls reporting and 99 per cent of votes counted
Julian had 17,357 and Panchi was just behind with 17,174 votes
Green candidate Tara Shustarian had just 726 votes and independent candidate Lourence Almonte Singh
who was disqualified as the Conservative standard bearer
Liberal Terry Beech held the lead with 219 of 220 polls reporting and 99 per cent of the vote counted to be re-elected for a fourth term
Beech had 36,474 votes to second place Conservative contender Mauro Francis at 21,268
and NDP Charrois in a distant third with 4019 votes
People’s Party of Canada candidate Jesse Fulton took just 363 votes
Here is a riding-by-riding map of election results for Metro Vancouver:
Here is a riding-by-riding map of election results for B.C:
depenner@postmedia.com
As the wait time for a New Westminster elementary school continues to drag on
called the Simcoe Elementary development an "urgent" priority and obtaining approval is at a dire stage.
The March 10 council meeting saw councillors support a motion to write to the education minister in support of School District 40’s capital needs that reflect its long-range facilities plan
families will be rallying and demanding answers from the province.
SD40 District Parent Advisory Council members say the concept plan has been with the minister of education for more than three years
"No funding has been announced despite the obvious and urgent need," a press release stated
"Our MLAs and the ministry of education and child care told us to be patient
We were assured of a funding announcement last year and then told to wait again until the spring
"The budget has come and gone and our district is still waiting
Our kids cannot wait any longer."
The rally is being held at the office of New Westminster-Coquitlam MLA and Minister of Labour Jennifer Whiteside (335 Sixth St.) from 1 to 2 p.m
Whiteside has also previously served as the education minister.
our district is left with impossible choices," the advisory council added
"We are calling on the ministry to fast track the building of Simcoe Elementary and give public education the investment our children deserve."
SD40 was originally hoping the 600-student elementary school would have a completion date of 2027
Century House wants to help ensure New Westminster is able to meet of the needs of its growing seniors’ population — today and in the years to come
presents speakers and workshops focused on showing seniors how they can participate in advocating for change on issues that affect their daily lives. A Century House notice said the T4C group aims to help seniors develop the appropriate advocacy skills to effectively participate in the changes necessary to ensure they’re not left behind.
Last year, the T4C group organized and presented a series of speakers and workshops. Those included a documentary filmmaker, a 92-year-old social activist, an afternoon with the first BC Seniors Advocate (Isobel Mackenzie)
and a town hall on the unaffordable housing crisis.
The Time for Change group has announced two events for this year — with more to come
includes a visit from the new BC Seniors Advocate
and an overview of the city’s age-friendly strategy
People can attend in person at Century House or via Zoom
Levitt has served as the province’s seniors advocate since March 2024; he will talk about what he has learned and where he wants his office to go in the future
who is tasked with keeping seniors-related issues front and centre with the public and the provincial government
has extensive experience in the areas of senior-living
long-term care homes as well as innovations related to living with dementia
The second hour of the April 4 event will feature an overview of the City of New Westminster’s age-friendly strategy
which involves planning for the future needs associated with an aging population
“Statistics indicate that between 2016 and 2041
[the] 50+ demographic will increase by 80 per cent and those 65+ will increase by 127 per cent,” said the notice
“This presentation will also include a panel discussion offering different perspectives on the issue
followed by input from the audience.”
Everyone is welcome to attend the event
register at the Century House front desk or call 604-519-1066
The Time for Change group is also sponsoring a safe city town hall during Seniors Week in June
which is a partnership consisting of Century House members
currently consists of CH members Val MacDonald
City staff involved in the group include John Stark
but the city expects the Fifth Street boulevard to be a blanket of green sometime this spring
the City of New Westminster began implementing its biodiversity and natural areas strategy on the Fifth Street boulevard between Third and Fourth avenues
and scattered leaves and debris to return nutrients to the soil
While the city had planned to add more plants and replace the large logs with smaller logs this spring
it has now embarked on a different approach for the space
the large snags or logs that were placed in the median were removed
The native plants have been relocated to other areas of the city
and the leaf and mulch debris has been removed
… We're kind of back to soil,” said Erika Mashig
we're going to seed the area with a pollinator seed mix
it’s a mix of wildflowers and grasses that support pollinator foraging.”
Mashig said the new plan aims to provide a balance between the city’s biodiversity goals for the median and the Fifth Street corridor and residents’ feedback
She said the city received a mix of feedback from residents
but “admittedly missed some steps” before starting this project and is listening to what residents had to say about the initiative
“We implemented a high level of biodiversity enhancement
… There’s different degrees of enhancement,” she said
“And I think going from manicured lawn to the highest level of naturalization
we recognize it was a lot of change and in a short period of time
we're dialing it back to something more gradual.”
While the median may currently look like bit of a mud pit
“This seed will start to sprout this spring,” Mashig said
“I am not an expert on seed germination but just based on what we've seen with other mixes
I think we'll see good coverage by late spring.”
What will the space look like once the seeds germinate
“It’ll be a green carpet of grass
but it can be mowed up to three times a season
it'll be a little more fuller look than a typical lawn
and we hope to see some pollinators.”
the City of New Westminster’s biodiversity and natural areas strategy includes actions to protect species and enhance the quality of natural areas in the city
The Fifth Street median is one of the areas that’s been identified as a location for naturalization
Mashig said one of the goals of the initiative is to reduce carbon emissions and maintenance related to the frequent mowing required of lawns on the boulevard and to provide wildlife and pollinator habitat
Mashig later told the Record that diverse plantings of native plants
wildflowers, and grasses provide crucial food
shelter, and nesting habitat for pollinators like bees
She said these naturalized areas help the soil retain moisture (beneficial for trees during droughts)
reduce ground temperatures (helping to keep the community cooler)
In response to the latest work on the boulevard
some residents have voiced concerns about the cost of tearing up the lawn
returning to the site and removing the previously planted materials
Mashig told the Record that city staff are compiling that information at this time
“There's costs to purchasing plants and seed
but then it's the staff time,” she said
we haven't actually quantified that into a dollar value
but we have that information to compile.”
Mashig said the city’s gardeners were “very excited” to take the plants that were removed from the Fifth Street boulevard to gardens in other parts of the city
“We are taking steps to correct the situation
to provide a more gradual and visually appealing naturalization that supports pollinators,” she said
“And I can speak on behalf of staff that you know
we've learned a lot of valuable lessons through the experience.”
The March 24 city council agenda includes a motion from Coun
Paul Minhas recommending that the rewilding and naturalizing of the Second Street and Fifth Street boulevards be placed on hold until October 2026 (that’s when the next civic election takes place)
Minhas’s motion also recommended that a neighbourhood consultation plan be developed and shared with council regarding any future naturalizing or rewilding of the boulevards in Queen’s Park or other neighbourhoods in the city
The March 24 council agenda also includes 31 pieces of correspondence from residents about the naturalization efforts on the Fifth Street boulevard
Some of the letters voiced opposition to the initiative for a variety of reasons
potential for attracting rats and other wildlife
Many of those opposed to the initiative said the project is “unsightly” and is esthetically unappealing and unsuitable for a boulevard in a heritage conservation area
also received numerous letters from residents who support the Fifth Street naturalizing work
and enhanced appearance compared to green grass
several Second Street residents supported the biodiversity initiative — and encouraged the city to implement similar changes to the wide boulevard in front of their homes
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the closure of the Burnaby Now
It has been a privilege and an honour to serve you for more than 40 years.
We’ve documented not just the news but your triumphs and challenges: from your children’s school plays and fundraisers to the debates at city hall.
We know these publications hold a special place in the hearts of those who call Burnaby
New Westminster and the Tri-Cities home.
explored all possible options to maintain operations
Unfortunately, the industry’s ongoing financial challenges have made it unsustainable to continue on
“This is a very sad day for our employees
readers and local journalism,” said publisher Lara Graham
“We’re incredibly proud of the work we’ve done and we’re so grateful to our hardworking staff who have made these publications so special
and to our loyal readers and advertisers who have supported us over the years.”
The relationships and connections we’ve built over the decades have meant so much to us
Thank you for picking up the phone or letting us into your homes for an interview
Thank you for choosing to advertise with us even when times were tough
Glacier Media is working with staff on the closure; the closure will be no later than April 21 for Burnaby Now/New Westminster Record, and May 21 for Tri-City News. For any inquiries, please contact publisher Lara Graham at [email protected].
VancouverNewsNew Westminster police investigating hit-and-run that sent woman to hospitalBy Ian HollidayPublished: March 26, 2025 at 7:11PM EDT
Walking is good for your health — but it can also be good for the community
Several walking challenges and fundraisers are on the go or coming up in New West
Here’s a look at some of the walking events happening around town
The City of New Westminster is once again taking part in the annual WALK30 Challenge
which aims to encourage community members to walk 30 minutes (or more) a day for their health and wellness
It’s also designed to promote walking as a form of transportation
This year’s free WALK30 Challenge runs from April 1 to 30. Community members can still sign up online
As part of this event, Mayor Patrick Johnstone is hosting a series of walks/chats in different New West neighbourhoods
KidSport is hosting the MOVE430 Challenge
a virtual event challenging people to move for 30 minutes each day in April
Participants commit to any physical activity
for at least 30 minutes every day for 30 consecutive days starting April 1
and track their progress to complete the challenge
but you can still support the cause and join the New Westminster team
The entire $30 registration fee goes to KidSport — you can determine which chapter you want your funds to go to
Like the other chapters in Canada, KidSport New West raises money to support children who need financial assistance with sport registration fees and equipment costs.
The New West Hospice Society’s annual RiverWalk fundraiser returns to the waterfront on Sunday
The society has set a fundraising goal of $10,000 for this year’s walk
with funds helping to provide hospice programs in New Westminster
Community members are invited to take part in the walk that’s about two kilometres along the waterfront boardwalk
It’s wheelchair and stroller accessible
and water stations will be provided along the way
Walk of Ages is an opportunity for community members to raise awareness and funds for seniors who face poverty
The Seniors Services Society of BC’s Walk of Ages 2025 event is on Sunday
It raises awareness and crucial funds for the Seniors Services Society
helping to ensure that vulnerable seniors get the housing and support they need
Community members are invited to get involved by sponsoring the walk or participating in the event
A new riverfront park and pathway on New West’s waterfront will open this spring
Work on the Pier West project on New Westminster's waterfront is heading into the homestretch
with most of the building construction complete and public spaces scheduled to be finished this spring
located between Westminster Pier Park and River Market
includes 53- and 43-storey residential towers (the city’s two tallest buildings)
a three-storey commercial building with a 40-space child-care facility and retail space
and a number of parks and public realm improvements
“Park B is the park between the two buildings — this one is constructed by Bosa Development and will be complete this spring,” said a Bosa Development statement to the Record
“The river pathway will open this spring as well.”
pedestrians could walk from the esplanade near River Market to Westminster Pier Park
by passing through the market’s former parking lot
That connection has been eliminated during construction
so people have had to access Pier Park via the pedestrian overpass at Sixth Street or the elevator/stairs at Fourth Street
Bosa Development said it had been on track to open the esplanade by the end of last summer
Required changes to construction materials
In addition to the park being created by Bosa Development between the two residential towers
the City of New Westminster will be creating a larger park on the eastern side of the site — next to Westminster Pier Park
“Park C is the large park to the east of the east tower and is constructed by the city,” said the statement from Bosa Development. “And we are told will open spring 2026.”
The Record has contacted the City of New Westminster for details about the future park
which will connect to the existing Westminster Pier Park
Construction of the Pier West residential buildings is complete
and many residents are settling into their new digs
“Most of the main site structures are now complete
and the Begbie Street/Quayside Drive realignment,” said Bosa Development
“Residents have been moving into the west tower since last fall
and the parkade is open to residents and the public.”
residents and tenants will soon begin moving into the east tower and the commercial building
Any information about the tenants in the commercial building will be provided by the tenants themselves
“Ground floor tenants are not yet confirmed,” said the statement
Bosa Development reports that more than 300 homes in the west tower are already occupied
“Pier West is a legacy project for Bosa Development,” said Robert Marchand
“It marks a tremendous undertaking for a residential building in Canada
This site was one of Metro Vancouver’s last buildable waterfront locations
and public spaces that will be enjoyed for generations
including a two-acre extension to Westminster Pier Park.”
E-Comm will once again answer the New Westminster Police Department’s non-emergency calls
The police department announced April 10 that it will be transitioning all of its non-emergency call-taking back to E-Comm as of April 15
E-Comm already provides dispatch and emergency call-taking for New Westminster and has been providing non-emergency service for the department after-hours and on weekends
NWPD staff took over answering non-emergency calls on weekdays between 8 a.m
According to an NWPD news release
E-Comm has made several improvements to its non-emergency service
including the creation of a dedicated non-emergency call-taking team and the introduction of new technology to improve the caller experience
the police department said E-Comm’s non-emergency service levels have strengthened significantly
“I’d like to thank the NWPD staff in our communications operations centre for the service they provided the citizens of New Westminster in our time of need,” Chief Const
“Now that our public safety partners at E-Comm have transformed their service delivery
the time is right to return to E-Comm 9-1-1
We’re confident residents will benefit from their improved system.”
E-Comm’s vice-president of operations
said E-Comm is pleased to build on its strong partnership with the New Westminster Police Department as its transitions non-emergency call-taking back to E-Comm full-time
He said this service will now operate alongside the 24/7 emergency call-taking and dispatch services E-Comm continues to provide to the city and its police
“Our non-emergency service is stronger than it’s been in years
thanks to major improvements — such as a dedicated call-taking team and our new interactive software
which gives callers more options between 7 a.m
and SMS text updates for police file numbers,” he said in the release
After decades of operating its own dispatch system
the New Westminster Police Department announced in June 2013 that all of its emergency call-taking and dispatch services had successfully been integrated into the E-Comm regional emergency communications centre
the NWPD became the 13th police agency dispatched by E-Comm
including New Westminster Fire and Rescue Services
“The size and scope of the E-Comm centre means that when there is a major event in one of the communities dispatched by the organization, E-Comm can draw from its large contingent of highly-trained staff and quickly re-deploy resources to help manage the increase in 9-1-1 calls,” said an E-Comm news release
“This provides an increased level of service an individual agency would be hard-pressed to achieve on its own.”
the New Westminster police board discussed concerns about the level of service that E-Comm (Emergency Communications for British Columbia) was providing to New West residents and businesses
At the Jan. 18, 2022 meeting
Dave Jansen said the number of abandoned calls in the fourth quarter of 2021 had increased from 44 per cent to 58 per cent
or 44 per cent,” Jansen told the board
“I won’t even begin to tell you the wait-time averages — they have gone from not great to horrible.”
In response to growing concerns, the New Westminster Police Department announced in July 2022 that the police board had directed the department to work with E-Comm to transition a portion of non-emergency call-taking to NWPD staff. In the news release
the NWPD said it’s “extremely important” to the department to have a call-taker available to people who need to file a non-emergency police report
At least two candidates will be running in the new New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville federal riding
According to Elections Canada
the nomination process for candidates closes on Monday
A complete list of confirmed candidates will be available on Wednesday
Canadians last went to the polls for a federal election on Sept. 20, 2021. Since that time, the local riding’s boundaries have changed
in response to proposals from the Federal Electoral Boundaries Commission
which are reviewed every 10 years (following the census
to ensure balanced representation and to adjust for population changes) had originally recommended that New West voters be divided between two proposed federal ridings: New Westminster-Bridgeview (with mainland New West sharing a riding with parts of North Surrey) and Richmond East (which would have included Queensborough)
left all of New Westminster intact in the new New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville riding
the riding includes a section of Burnaby (the area roughly bounded by 10th Avenue
Burris Street and Highway 1) and the Maillardville neighbourhood in Coquitlam
Advance voting is set to take place on four dates: Friday
five candidates vied to represent the then-named New Westminster-Burnaby riding in the House of Commons
representing the People’s Party of Canada
Julian, the incumbent, topped the polls and won his seventh federal election
The Queensborough Residents’ Association’s all-candidates meeting is a go – with at least three candidates pledging to attend the event
The QRA is holding an all-candidates meeting for the federal election candidates in the New Westminster- Burnaby-Maillardville riding on Wednesday
It’s will take place from 7 to 9 p.m
the People’s Party of Canada said it does not currently have a candidate for this riding
who had been cited as being the People’s Party of Canada candidate
is no longer a PPC candidate in New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville
The status of a Conservative candidate still seems to be in flux
Singh’s campaign signs were still spotted in front of local residences and at the New Westminster SkyTrain station
The Record has contacted the Conservative Party of Canada for an update.
Meanwhile, the Queensborough Residents’ Association hopes to hear from any candidates running in the riding who have not confirmed their attendance at the all-candidates meeting. Candidates can reach the QRA at [email protected]
I'm a proud resident of the New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville riding
I've lived in Richmond, Burnaby and now Queensborough (since 2021)
I have a strong connection with the residents of New Westminster-Burnaby-Maillardville
I’m a proud Canadian who believes in the values that make this country great: "freedom
hard work and community." I also understand that many of us are feeling the strain of rising costs
the proliferation of hard drugs destroying our families and neighbourhoods and
a sense that our voices are not being heard
That's why I'm running—to fight for the residents of my riding
Canadians are right to be concerned about Donald Trump's threats to our freedom and tariffs
The Liberal government (assisted by the NDP) has made our country politically and economically weak
Even our military is under funded and needs updating
Canada will NEVER be the 51st state of the U.S.
We will promote policies that bring Canadians together
National unity — respect provincial autonomy and work collaboratively with provinces
The Liberal government has made us economically too reliant on the U.S
We will improve and support our energy sector
including pipelines and natural resources development so that we can export to new international markets
Let's first acknowledge the housing affordability issue has been created by the disastrous policies of the Liberal government supported by the NDP
hence bureaucracy has grown by a whopping 40 per cent leading to unnecessary and costly delays in housing permits
We need to trim the government and empower municipalities and the private sector so that we can build more homes
Our commonsense policies is to lower taxes so that hard working Canadians take more home to their families
We need to put Canadians first. It’s about the single mom working two jobs to put food on the table
It’s about a small business owner struggling to keep their doors open
It’s about the senior who’s worried about making ends meet
These are the people I’m fighting for
and these are the people the Conservative Party stands with
It's very sad to learn that well respected news outlets are closing
All Canadians deserve to have access to all local independent trustworthy news outlets
Voters can call me directly at 604-771-7170 or reach out via the following avenues:
Our campaign office is located at 624 Agnes St.
Candidates were given an April 14 submission deadline.
A meadow with wildflowers and wild grasses will sprout up on part of the Fifth Street boulevard — despite concerns of some Queen’s Park residents
The initiative is part of the City of New Westminster’s 2022 biodiversity and natural area strategy
It defines the city’s parks and open spaces as hubs and seeks to support biodiversity in these natural spaces
six residents addressed council about the city’s efforts to create a nature habitat on the Fifth Street boulevard as part of the strategy
Some residents urged council to restore the boulevard to its previous green lawn
while others encouraged the city to proceed with the naturalization strategy
Gail Ancill said she's pleased the city removed the logs and mulch that were first placed on the boulevard. While the new plan is a better option
she said most residents would prefer grass on the boulevard
Four residents voiced concerns about the naturalization project and about a lack of consultation with residents about plans for the boulevard
said he was “bewildered” at the city’s decision to rewild the Fifth Street and Second Street boulevards
He said this “gem of the neighbourhood” is being significantly altered with something that is creating a “horrible
and lacking information about its environmental benefits
“It seems to me that this project has lurched from one bad solution to another in search of a problem that doesn't exist,” he said
“The grass boulevard was beautiful and has been for decades
Myles Liversidge expressed “deep concern” about the city’s handling of the project
“It's my opinion that elected officials are here to serve the people
consultation and respect for the voices who are directly affected,” he said
“We urge this council to engage with the community
and ensure that future directions or decisions reflect the wishes of the residents.”
Two New West residents spoke in support of the project at Monday’s council meeting
Juno Avila-Clark urged council not to put the initiative on hold
He said everyone in the city is already affected by the climate crisis
and the use of public land should reflect that reality
“We will all benefit from higher biodiversity
from flood control and cooling provided by these spaces,” he said
“City boulevards are not private space
When an issue is affecting the entire community
we need to join forces and work together to take care of one another.”
Monday’s agenda included a motion from Coun
Paul Minhas recommending the city’s biodiversity strategy
as it pertains to the rewilding and naturalizing of Second Street and Fifth Street boulevards
Minhas’s motion also recommended that a neighbourhood consultation plan be developed and shared with council regarding any future naturalizing or rewilding of the boulevards in Queen’s Park or other neighbourhoods throughout the city
Avila-Clark said the motion impacts naturalization efforts citywide
“It's obvious … this motion that the real goal is slowing down climate solutions in the city,” he said
not just because these climate-mitigation strategies are urgently needed
but because they have the potential to be so beautiful
I think that everyone should get a chance to see more native plants in their neighbourhood and learn about their importance.”
whose Second Street home looks out onto the boulevard
said the motion is not about consultation but about delaying implementation of the strategy
“The city's biodiversity strategy is already an adopted policy
built on expert research and public engagement
Rewilding and naturalization are essential components of the strategy,” she said
“Pausing these efforts for another two years
biodiversity and our climate commitments.”
Perks said many heritage cities around the world have successfully integrated rewilding into their historic landscapes
By placing the biodiversity strategy on hold until October 2026
Minhas said the city would be acknowledging the importance of public input
“Developing a neighbourhood consultation plan ensures that the residents are actively engaged and informed about the proposed initiatives
fostering a sense of ownership and accountability,” he said
Fontaine supported Minhas's motion to pause the biodiversity project on Fifth Street
“While it may not seem like a lot to some people that the grass has been ripped up from a boulevard and replaced by massive logs
it does mean a lot to the community of not only Queen's Park but
actually our whole city who cherish Queen's Park as not only a beautiful place to visit and to walk
but a beautiful place to live,” he said
“It is an amazing gem and something that we should all cherish as a community.”
Citing concerns about community opposition and cost
Fontaine supported putting the project on hold until October 2026
“Let's get the grass planted,” he said
“Let's allow people to play Frisbee
Tasha Henderson expressed concern about politicizing the strategy by tying the project to a civic election
“I’m uncomfortable with the idea of bringing work to council and politicizing it in terms of suggesting that this become an election issue,” she said
“I think we ought to just do the good work because that's what our job is here to do.”
Mayor Patrick Johnstone said some work on this project was done in 2023
but it was after the large logs arrived that residents became vocal about the naturalization initiative
“We haven't really had negative pushback to renaturalization in other neighbourhoods that's been going on around the community
and we didn't really have negative pushback to the lower part of Fifth [Street] when it was done,” he said
if staff were somewhat surprised by the negative feedback that came in these most recent changes
then I give them a little bit of grace in that.”
the Record received a letter from a Fifth Street resident stating it is incorrect to say no one complained to the city when it began to implement changes on the lower part of Fifth Street
The resident said they complained to the city about the plan and the lack of consultation and later had to spend hours “weeding the dandelion infestation that sprouted” up in the boulevard.)
Johnstone said Minhas’s motion made no mention of bringing grass back to the boulevard
Saying Minhas’s motion may not have been as clear as it could have been
Fontaine moved an amendment which stated that the Fifth Street boulevard would be returned to its previous state
Ruby Campbell and Jaimie McEvoy opposed Fontaine’s amendment
a majority of council voted in favour of a motion put forward by Johnstone
one he said was consistent with correspondence staff has presented to the community
give it time for the native plants to grow in
and then let the community have a conversation about whether this is something that they approve of or don't approve of,” Johnstone said
“As was said to me by someone else: ‘You don't judge how good a road improvement project is while you're digging the road up
19 email from staff stating that work on the project was being paused
and the city would not be moving forward with further naturalization efforts at this time
She also expressed concern about council members bringing forward “politicized” motions
because I do think an overall conversation
“I want to put this in the context of climate action.”
the city’s director of parks and recreation
said the direct costs associated with the program are about $5,000 to $6,500
That’s for the initial planting materials and the recent purchase of seed mix
“The initial installation had plant materials installed; the value of that plant material is approximately $5,000,” he said
“Those particular plants have subsequently been removed in the past weeks
and those plants are now transplanted and have homes
in other naturalized areas around the city.”
work on the initiative equates to approximately three weeks of staff time over a three-week period
He said the work was done intermittently by two to four staff members
Gibson said the city has not been able to determine the cost of staff time and equipment
as the city’s internal accounting mechanisms don't allow staff to delve into that level of detail without a considerable amount of additional effort
He said staff are happy to “dig into costing at a more detailed level” but it will take some time
Gibson said city crews installed the logs on the boulevard
who was working on another capital project and had equipment that was not available to the city
removed the logs in about a day and a half
Fontaine pressed for details about costs related to the contractor
the city’s chief administrative officer
said staff would have to do more research and will report back to council
the city’s deputy director of parks
said the next step will be to be place two inches of soil on the boulevard and seed that area with a pollinator mix for local bees
which can grow to about five to six inches
She said it can be mowed to about three inches
the mix has been used in Saint Mary’s Park (next to École Qayqayt Elementary School) for about a year
“It's very lush and green and a little more puffy
you can get more or less flowers throughout the season.”