New Westminster City Council Discusses Impact of New BC Laws on Public Participation

The meeting highlighted the tension between provincial regulations and local autonomy, focusing on how these changes might affect public input in city zoning decisions. During the session, several council members and residents voiced their opinions, arguing that the new regulations might undermine the effectiveness of local governance. They stressed the need for a balanced approach that respects both provincial goals and local voices.

Christopher Bell, a longtime resident of New Westminster, wrote the city a letter stating, “I am completely opposed to the suggested amendments as there is no way that a delegation of one or two persons speaking to the first, second and third readings of a proposed land use bylaw can be considered a public hearing where dozens may speak freely on a proposed land use bylaw.”

The council resolved to continue advocating for the preservation of New Westminster’s inclusive public delegation process while working within the framework of the new provincial laws. The meeting concluded with a commitment to further discussions and consultations with residents to ensure their concerns are adequately addressed.

Mayor Johnstone, addressing the council, expressed concerns about the potential limitations imposed by the new laws. “The way we do public delegations in New Westminster is one of the most open public delegation processes they have anywhere in the region, if not in the province, allowing essentially anyone to come and have their five minutes and speak on any item,” he stated. Johnstone emphasized the importance of maintaining this open forum, which he believes is crucial for democratic participation and community engagement.