Skip to content

Meet Benny Ogden, independent

Meet Benny Ogden, independent Name: Benny Ogden Facebook: Facebook.com/bennyogdennw Website: bennyogden.com Email: bennyogden77@gmail.com Questions (in 50 words unless specified). Tell us about yourself.
Benny Ogden
Benny Ogden is running for council as an independent.

Meet Benny Ogden, independent

 

Name: Benny Ogden

Facebook: Facebook.com/bennyogdennw

Website: bennyogden.com

Email: bennyogden77@gmail.com

 

Questions (in 50 words unless specified).

Tell us about yourself. (100 words)

I believe that everyone should have a home that they can afford and are comfortable in. I will be constantly looking for ways to make life more affordable. I will fight to help those facing demo/renovictions. I also believe in supporting small businesses. They are a vital part of our economy and local culture. It's time for new ideas, fresh blood, and fresh eyes. My ears are also open at 778-697-1071.

 

What are the Top 3 issues facing the City of New Westminster? (100 words)

During the last census period, the population of New Westminster went up by over a thousand per year. That is naturally putting pressure on the housing market. The city needs to be a lot more pro-active in finding ways to have affordable housing built. This should not include setting the definition of affordable to be something it is not. We also need to be mindful of the capacity needs will change as the city densifies. Roadways may need to be expanded or streamlined to accommodate. The city's electric grid may also need upgrades.  Other services capacities will also need to be monitored …

 

What is the biggest success or failure of the current city council?

The biggest success of the current council is in the number of outdoor activities and events. That same council, however, is placing too much focus on making new Westminster a fun place to live, instead of working to make sure there is adequate housing.

 

The City of New Westminster concluded a lengthy official community plan process and is working to implement that plan. With the city’s population projected to grow to 104,000 by 2041, is the city on the right track to accommodating this growth?

The short answer is no. There are still renovictions happening.  The city needs to be much more pro-active in forging public-private partnerships to see more homes are built.

 

What three people – alive or dead – would you invite to a dinner party?

That one is easy. That would be with my niece, Olivia, and my nephews, Grayson and Lincoln. Their parents might want to come too.