The leader of the provincial NDP is dropping by New Westminster today to discuss issues of importance to the Royal City.
Coun. Bill Harper recently put forward a motion that the city invite Premier Christy Clark and NDP leader Adrian Dix to New Westminster to discuss issues including the Pattullo Bridge and Royal Columbian Hospital. Dix's visit came the same day that Health Minister Mike de Jong visited Royal Columbian Hospital to announce the province is committed to the hospital's redevelopment plans but has no timeline or budget for the project.
"That sounds like a series of five or six press releases between now and next spring," said Harper, who is currently serving as acting mayor. "That makes us very pleased. We had wondered if they had gotten to the point where they were committed to it."
Harper said the invitation to provincial politicians to visit New Westminster was part of a "general lobbying program" to ensure they're aware of local concerns, including the proposed replacement of the existing Pattullo Bridge.
"We want them to understand the kind of issues we face in New Westminster," he said. "My belief is that has not been the case in the past. New Westminster has been overlooked."
Dix agreed to meet with city council on June 12, but the premier has indicated she's unable to meet with city officials at this time.
New Westminster representatives recently met with B.C. Transportation Minister Blair Lekstrom in Vancouver to discuss transportation issues, including the Pattullo Bridge.
