New Westminster Council Tackles Clean Water Access and Urban Growth Issues

A city-wide plan for installing public drinking fountains was debated at the November 6th city council meeting. The original proposal, brought forward earlier by Councillors Nakagawa and Fontaine, became a source of contention once the details of their plan were presented. It included the idea of establishing temporary fountains.

The question debated was the inclusion of two words, "and temporary" to the proposal. Councillor Nakagawa stated, "We can get attached to ideas sometimes. But we have to know when to let them go."  Fontaine was concerned with the loss of the temporary fountains as a partial solution, in part because of a general concern that it would likely be two years or ore before the permanent fountains could be installed.  

It was generally agreed that hotter summers created by climate change make the addition of public drinking fountains crucial. Ultimately, the city plan was passed without temporary fountains added.

The second half of the council meeting looked at the impact of city growth on local residents. Three delegates came forward looking for solutions. It began with a question of parking for seasonal guests in a residential neighborhood. Current limitations of 75 hours for residential parking created hardships for some when family visits created a need for a longer parking period. Suggestions of a special permit were discussed with city staff to be implemented.

The Uptown Business Association brought up a dangerous pedestrian walkway created by local construction. In particular, the timing of crane placement, currently allowed during regular business hours during the week, was discussed. Comparisions to Vancouver bylaws were considered as a guide for changes to city bylaws.

Finally, a resident association asked for a long-requested traffic light at a school crossing. This request has been brought to city council several times over the last three years with no resolution. Discussions with city staff clarified a path forward for each of the delegates to find a resolution.