Dear Editor:
At the Feb. 17 council meeting, an interesting presentation was put forward on Intelligent City initiatives. New Westminster has many wonderful features to promote especially the stories and qualities of the Fraser River. Sadly, we did not get a ferry to Queensborough.
Then we heard from Ms. Radbourne, who I assume won't work with Hyack and is setting out on her own youth program - although saying she has a different program, she does mix in the words "pageant" and "ambassadors."
Next is shocking and embarrassing, awarding a new organization $28,000. What a slap in the face to every organization in the city. What ever happened to process, and why are they favoured for so much?
Interestingly, this item was tabled at the 3 p.m. committee of the whole and brought back to the table in the evening.
Why has the city turned its back on the Hyack association that has been organized for more than 40 years? Is it all over Mr. Smith, who was fired from Hyack and now works for a new organization? Mr. Smith stated he was suing Hyack, then we should find out why he was fired. Are councillors looking to uptown for election money?
This is a sad day for democracy and openness in politics in the City of New Westminster.
Maureen Albanese, New Westminster
