Ruby Campbell is running for New West City Council, and she answered my questions!
Given the amount of press Vancouver’s Stanley Park received when it had a bunch of coyotes roaming around it, do you support introducing more coyotes into New Westminster’s parks, potentially entering a Tourism / Parks partnership for tourist-coyote meet-and-greet programs?
New Westminster Parks and Recreation used to have a “Hug a Bunny” program, which allowed kids to take a bunny home overnight and experience the joy of caring for a pet. I suggest we bring that program back and go bigger- “Hug a Coyote”! If elected, watch for registration information.
Improving connections between Queensborough and mainland New Westminster is important. Will you commit to exploring new options such as draining the Fraser, installing catapults (free branding advice: name them “Qatapults”, you’re welcome), or advocating for a gondola like stupid Burnaby is getting?
I do not support the Qatapults because residents deserve a fixed connection — we need a zipline!
Speaking of stupid Burnaby, one of the darkest chapters in New Westminster’s history was when south Burnaby claimed independence and separated from New Westminster. As a result, New West lost nearly half of its land area and tax base. To what lengths are you willing to go to in order to take our land back and bring New Westminster back to its former glory?
If you mean land back to Indigenous Peoples, then I am 100% in!
What is your favourite bubble tea shop and flavour?
I don’t drink bubble tea but I do have a favourite bubble tea shop and it has to be Coco-the name of our sweet puppy! If you want to ask me about my favourite coffee, be prepared for at least one full hour where I share my favourite shops for different times of day, different occasions and depending upon who joins me.
Do you support hosting a local version of Burning Man in New West, culminating in the burning of a derelict building?
I understand the Vision of Burning Man Project is to “bring experiences to people in grand, awe-inspiring and joyful ways that lift the human spirit, address social problems, and inspire a sense of culture, community, and civic engagement.” I can support this 100% but, ugh, no more fires please!
What is your favourite neighbourhood and why is it (still) Brow of the Hill?
Everyone knows it’s Sapperton, with a special shout out to Alberta Street neighbours. We even know how to fight off cougars! #SappertonStrong
With New Westminster’s hills, and winters having longer cold spells, what is your position on improving transportation options between Downtown and Uptown by installing rope towlines on 6th, 8th, and 10th Streets between Carnarvon and 4th Ave during the winter months?
Only if the Downtown BIA will organize Summer Slip and Slide Saturdays so we can fully maximize the use.
When will you bring metal to the Anvil Centre theatre?
This is the only reason my family is supporting my run for city council. If anyone knows how we can book Slayer, please contact me immediately.
Thank you Ruby!
And don’t forget to go out and vote!