New West’s New Council + Trans Clothing Swap

A new political chapter is underway at New Westminster City Hall. The city’s newly elected 2026–2030 council officially took office on November 2, following the October 17 civic election that brought a new mayor and four new councillors to the table.

The outgoing 2022–2026 council held its final closed meeting before its term ended immediately ahead of the inaugural meeting, where the incoming members took their oaths of office. The City had planned to begin onboarding the new council following the inauguration.

Daniel Fontaine, who defeated incumbent Mayor Patrick Johnstone, now takes the mayor’s seat. Fontaine received 12,361 votes, compared with Johnstone’s 10,128.

Only two councillors from the previous council were re-elected: Tasha Henderson and Paul Minhas. They will be joined by four newcomers — Ken Armstrong, Rick Folka, Maryann Morrison and Karima Budhwani.

The six councillor seats are now held by five New Westminster Progressives representatives and one Community First New Westminster representative, Henderson.

The incoming council brings together three familiar faces, including Fontaine, and four first-time members. Fontaine has described the mix as a balance of experienced voices and newcomers with fresh ideas.

With the new term now underway, attention turns to how the council will work together and shape the city's priorities over the next four years.

Read the Original Freshet News Article

Click here to submit your question to our local Lawyer Cassady Law LLP

👕 Trans Clothing Swap Brings Style and Community Spirit to New Westminster

Refresh your wardrobe, discover unique finds and support a great community initiative! A Trans Clothing Swap is coming to New Westminster on Sunday, November 8, bringing trans community members and their chosen allies together for an afternoon of sharing, connection and celebration.

The event runs from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Wildfire’s Literary Lounge, 712 B 12th Street. Trans folks and their chosen allies are welcome from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., with the event opening to the general public from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.

There’s more than clothing up for grabs. Attendees can also enter raffles featuring prize packages with artwork created by trans artists. Draws are scheduled for 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. — but participants must be present when their name is called to claim a prize.

Want to contribute? Wildfire’s bookshop will accept freshly washed clothing in good condition from November 4 to 7 during regular business hours. Reusable bags are also welcome to help distribute clothing and transport leftover items to local shelters.

Organizers are looking for volunteers to help set up, sort remaining clothing and deliver donations to shelters. Those interested in volunteering, donating artwork or learning more can contact [email protected].

Whether you're looking for something new to wear or hoping to support a welcoming community gathering, this swap is a chance to share resources, celebrate creativity and help clothing find a new home.

Donate Clean Clothing or Reusable Bags

🔄 NEW ROUND. NEW PRIZE. NEW WEST-TIN! 🤖🎉

The guessing from last week is officially closed — but don’t worry…West-tin is already hiding somewhere new! 👀

🎁 This week’s prize (November 5 - November 11):
Win a Gift Card for Local Business or Grocery Store from Lower Mainland Purpose Society.

Think you know the spot?
Head to Facebook and Instagram and drop your guess.

👉 Your play guide is here.

You play on Facebook and Instagram. You win in the newsletter.

Thanks to Dynamic Health & Fitness and Fuel Hut for sponsoring

🕵 “The First Detective on the Scene” 🕵‍♀️ monthly prize!

⛈ Rain Joke of the Day 🌧

🌧️ Why did the puddle get invited to every November gathering? 💦

It was always making a splash. 🌊

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New West’s New Council + Trans Clothing Swap

Inside the New West Spotlight

Read New West Spotlight Online

Thursday November 05, 2026

Friday November 06, 2026

Saturday November 07, 2026

🏛️ New Westminster’s New Council Takes Office Under Mayor Daniel Fontaine