CAMPAIGN 2026
CAMPAIGN 2026 MAYORAL CANDIDATE
The New West Progressives are proud to nominate Councillor Daniel Fontaine, ICD.D as our mayoral candidate for the 2026 civic election.
A long-time resident of New Westminster,
Daniel lives in the Moody Park neighbourhood with his wife and son. First elected to City Council in 2022, he has built a reputation for asking tough questions, standing up for taxpayers, and working to bring balance and accountability back to
City Hall.
Professionally, Daniel is the principal at MICHIFCO Consulting and has held senior leadership roles including Deputy Minister and CEO for Métis Nation BC and CEO of the BC Care Providers Association. He also served as Chair of the Canadian Association for Long-Term Care and as a board member with SafeCare BC and the College of Psychologists of BC.
A graduate of the University of Manitoba
(Political Studies), Daniel also earned the ICD.D designation through the Rothman’s School of Business program at Simon Fraser University.
Daniel’s contributions extend well beyond the workplace. He was awarded the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal for Public Service and the 2016 Volunteer of the Year Award from the New Westminster Minor Hockey Association. Today, he continues to volunteer on the Board of Hockey Canada and was recently inducted into Canada’s Marketing, Advertising, PR and Communications Hall of Fame.
School Trustee Candidates
NWP Announces First
Two School Board Trustee Candidates for 2026 Municipal Election
The NWP today confirmed the selection of Liz Fajber and Lucas Steele as their first two School Board Trustee candidates for the 2026 municipal election. New Westminster Councillor and NWP Mayoral Candidate Daniel Fontaine made the announcement today at a special NWP volunteer recognition event. He also announced Lucas will co-chair a city-wide NWP Youth Campaign that will encourage first-time voters to actively participate in the 2026 election.
“Liz and Lucas will bring fresh perspectives, new energy and a strong passion for education to the School Board,” said Councillor Fontaine. “With her local roots and amazing experience, Liz is another example of how the NWP is presenting a team of candidates ready to lead and govern. With Lucas, we will ensure youth perspectives are always present at the School Board and within our Caucus.”
Liz Fajber is a proud graduate of New Westminster Secondary School with over 25 years experience working in government and non-profit sectors in Canada and around the world.
“I am passionate about education and want every child in New Westminster to have access to safe, inclusive and quality learning. My goal is to put children first in all Board decisions, make the best use of limited resources and collaborate with parents, teachers, support staff and students to deliver lasting change,” said candidate Fajber. “I am proud to support Daniel Fontaine for Mayor. He stands out as an inspiring leader who truly listens, engages meaningfully with residents and is committed to driving positive change for our city.”
Lucas Steele is a lifelong resident of New Westminster and currently resides in Massey Heights. He is a graduate of New Westminster Secondary School with deep roots in local education, athletics and recreation.
“I am running to bring a fresh and positive energy to the School Board and local government,” said candidate Steele. “I will be a proactive, engaged listener with staff, students and parents to ensure Board decisions align with the needs of those directly involved in our schools. I am also proud to support Daniel Fontaine as New Westminster’s next Mayor because he has a proven track record of leadership and volunteerism in our community.”
NWP will confirm additional School Board candidates over the coming weeks.
Liz Fajber
Liz Fajber is passionate that every child in New Westminster deserves access to safe, inclusive, high-quality education. A proud graduate of New Westminster Secondary School, Liz credits her school experience and youth leadership programmes with inspiring her dedication to public service. Now living in the Moody Park neighbourhood, Liz is committed to giving back to the city that shaped her future.
With over 25 years experience working in government and non-profit sectors in Canada and internationally, Liz brings a proven track record in strategic planning, policy and effective leadership. She has held senior roles with the United Kingdom Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office, including as Deputy Director, Geopolitics, and with the UK Department for International Development as Senior Social Development Adviser and Deputy Country Director, stationed in Afghanistan. She also worked with the International Development Research Centre of Canada in India and Ottawa. She has managed large portfolios and budgets, including education and youth programmes, successfully advocated for and secured funding, and has worked with diverse communities in Canada and abroad.
Liz is known for her collaborative approach, working closely with community groups, government officials, businesses, and civil society. She believes that transparency, listening and open communication, and collaboration with parents, teachers, support staff, students and other parties are essential to addressing the education challenges in New Westminster.
Holding an M.A. in Anthropology from McGill University, Liz is an active volunteer including as a mentor to young professionals and as president of her building’s strata council.
Liz is running for New Westminster School Board Trustee to promote policies that enable children to have safe, inclusive quality education, ensure responsible stewardship of public financial resources, and foster strong partnerships with parents, teachers and schools. Her leadership experience and commitment to putting kids first make her a trusted choice for the School Board.
Lucas Steele
Lucas Steele is a lifelong resident of New Westminster and currently resides in the Massey Heights neighbourhood. He is a graduate of New Westminster Secondary School (NWSS) with deep roots in local education, athletics, and recreation.
Lucas is running for School Trustee because his connection to New Westminster schools did not end at graduation. He is committed to supporting inclusive, accessible and well-resourced schools that reflect the needs of students, families and the broader community.
Lucas has worked with children and youth from the elementary through high school level, giving him experience and an understanding of the challenges they face at different stages of their education. He has also volunteered at Fraser River and Glenbrook middle schools.
Lucas has coached Hyack football, the New Westminster Royals and founded the NWSS Lifting Club, which provides opportunities for students to build confidence in a supportive environment. He is a powerlifter for Team Canada and believes strongly in the role that physical activity plays in confidence, discipline, mental health and wellness.
Lucas believes all students deserve equal access to education and extracurricular opportunities so they can discover their purpose, pursue their passions and thrive inside and outside the classroom. He believes diverse collaboration is key to a strong and successful school system.
Lucas is committed to working collaboratively with students, staff, families and the wider community to ensure the best possible student experience. He believes in leading with compassion for students, recognizing the academic, social, and mental health pressures they face.
Lucas is a strong advocate for helping students better understand how they learn and supports pushing for government-funded learning and educational assessments, so students can identify effective learning strategies early and receive the support they need to succeed. He also believes in advocating for more subsidized opportunities in athletics and extracurricular activities, so financial barriers do not prevent students from participating and finding where they belong.
Lucas understands that New Westminster is one of the densest cities in Canada and believes this reality must be thoughtfully considered when planning for school capacity, access to space, student supports, and the long-term needs of a growing community.
About Campaign 2026
The New West Progressives are launching Campaign 2026 with a
clear vision:to restore balance, accountability, and common-sense leadership at City Hall.
Our team is committed to listening to residents, ensuring taxpayer dollars are respected, and keeping New Westminster a safe, vibrant, and inclusive community for everyone.
In 2026, we’re offering voters a strong alternative to the status quo — one that values transparency, neighbourhood voices, and practical solutions to the challenges facing our city.
Council Candidates
The NWP has announced six council candidates that plan to run alongside mayoral candidate Daniel Fontaine.
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Paul Minhas
Paul Minhas is a small business owner, an employer, and a downtown New Westminster resident.
In 2005, Paul opened the much-loved Heritage Grill and operated it until a tragic fire destroyed it in 2021. He continues to operate Begbie’s Pub which opened in 2016.
An ardent supporter of arts and culture, Paul not only turned his businesses into destinations and hubs for New Westminster artists and art lovers, but his belief in the city’s potential as an arts forward community led him to spearhead the Annual Pride Week, the popular Show and Shine and the Food Truck Festival.
Paul believes a thriving local economy and healthy small businesses contribute to a safer, more vibrant, and fun-filled New Westminster. Hence crime and safety, revitalizing our business districts, and promoting New West as a destination are his priorities.
Ken Armstrong
I have lived in New Westminster since 2002, and Queensborough since 2008. My wife, Christina, and I have two children, 23 and 18. I am a lawyer, and I work at a small firm in downtown Vancouver, and I have been the managing partner of another small firm. Throughout my adult life I have been actively involved in the community. I have served on the executive of the New Westminster Bar Association, including as President, and I have represented lawyers of New Westminster to the provincial and national councils of the Canadian Bar Association. I was president of the CBA (BC Branch). I was named King’s Counsel in 2020. I have been an active youth sports volunteer in New West for over two decades: as a baseball and soccer coach, elite level baseball umpire, and board member; I was named a Life Member of Little League BC in 2019.
Maryann Morrison
Maryann Morrison is a proud Métis woman and second-generation New Westminster–born resident who has dedicated her life and career to building stronger and more inclusive communities.
With deep family roots in New Westminster and generations of ties to the region, Maryann carries forward a legacy of service, connection, and love for the place she calls home. Guided by a belief that communities thrive when people feel heard, respected and that they belong, she has spent decades bringing people together and creating space for diverse voices.
As Executive Director of the North Fraser Métis Association, she works closely with Elders, youth, families, and partner organizations to advance food security, expand culturally grounded programming, and secure grants that address real community needs.
Maryann has served on public and private boards. Her professional background includes senior leadership roles such as Senior Director at Métis Nation British Columbia, Director of Marketing for the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority and a Vancouver advertising agency CEO. In each role, she has built a reputation for collaboration, integrity and a people-first approach.
Maryann recently completed the UBC Sauder Mini MBA and a postgraduate program in Digital Business, building on earlier studies in interactive arts and communication. She is motivated by gratitude — for her family’s history here, for the people who make New West such a caring and resilient place, and for the opportunity to serve the community she loves.
Maryann is running for New Westminster City Council because she believes in a city where every resident feels included in the decisions that shape their daily lives. She is honoured to stand with the NWP team and mayoral candidate Daniel Fontaine, and ready to work tirelessly to ensure residents feel valued and inspired to reignite what they love about living in New Westminster.
Richard Folka
Rick Folka is a lifelong resident of New Westminster with deep roots in the community. Born and raised in the city, Rick and his wife Joanne, married for 52 years, have raised five children, four of whom still live in New Westminster. His family’s connection to the city dates back to the late 1890s, reflecting a long-standing commitment to its growth and well-being.
With extensive experience in finance, administration, and leadership, Rick has successfully managed complex budgets and organizations. His professional background equips him to analyze priorities and ensure resources are allocated effectively to meet the needs of the community.
In his professional capacity, Rick has worked on a project involving BC Housing, focusing on the financial aspects of developing low-income housing apartments. He has also collaborated with health authorities and other organizations to advocate for improved healthcare services and support for facilities in the region.
Rick believes New Westminster’s current projects often fail to prioritize residents’ needs. He is committed to ensuring financial decisions are made transparently and responsibly, with a focus on infrastructure, housing, and community services that directly impact the lives of citizens. His leadership experience, financial expertise, and dedication to community service make him uniquely qualified to advocate for a balanced approach to development that benefits all members of the city.
Rick Folka is ready to bring his expertise and community-first mindset to serve the people of New Westminster and ensure their voices are heard in shaping the city’s future.
Ray Porcellato
Born and raised in New Westminster, Ray has proudly called New Westminster home for all of his 56 years.
Ray grew up on 2nd Street, attended Herbert Spencer Elementary, and graduated from NWSS. He has stayed connected ever since to the people and spirit that make this community so special.
Professionally, Ray has spent over a decade helping major companies grow responsibly and sustainably across North America. In 2009, he founded Cloud9 Specialty Bakery, a New Westminster-based business that became a nationally recognized brand across Canada.
In 2018, Ray joined Western Foods, where he helped launch and expand new product lines under the Pure Nature Foods brand. Today, Ray is the President and General Manager of the New Westminster Salmonbellies.
At home, Ray is a proud husband of 26 years to his wife Karen, a Surrey school principal, and father to two wonderful young adults, Stella and Oscar.
Ray is running for Council to give back to the city that has given him so much — to protect its heritage, support local families and businesses, and build a stronger, more sustainable future for all.
Karima Budhwani
Karima Budhwani came to Canada from Kenya as a young child and grew up with a deep appreciation for opportunity, resilience, and the support that helps families build their futures. A long-time Queens Park resident, she holds a Master’s degree in Environmental Studies from York University, a law degree from Osgoode Hall Law School, and was called to the Bar in British Columbia in 1998.
For more than two decades, Karima worked with organizations and institutions across BC to advance access to justice, including environmental justice. She championed partnerships and services that helped communities strengthen fairness, navigate complex systems, and advocate for meaningful change.
A member of the Ismaili Muslim community, Karima has served in various volunteer and leadership roles, including as a Scouter, and is grateful for the sense of purpose and connection that community service has brought to her life. She and her husband are raising their two children in New Westminster, a city they are proud to call home.
Today, Karima is a business owner and a mental fitness and leadership coach who supports professionals to build clarity, resilience, and confidence. She believes that when people are equipped with the tools to thrive, they contribute more fully to their families, workplaces, and neighbourhoods, and that strong communities begin with strong people. She combines neuroscience-informed tools with her lifelong commitment to learning to help people lead with purpose and wellbeing.
For the past three years, Karima has served as President of the NWP. This role has given her deep insight into the needs, priorities, and aspirations of residents across the city. Through this work, she has listened closely to community concerns, built relationships across neighbourhoods, and advocated for practical, resident-focused solutions to strengthen New Westminster.
Karima is running for New Westminster City Council because she believes in a city where every resident feels welcomed, valued, and able to participate in shaping our shared future. She is committed to building infrastructure that supports the aspirations of families, from safe streets and accessible services to thriving public spaces and a strong local economy that gives residents the confidence to build their lives here.
Rooted in optimism, collaboration, and a belief in what people can achieve together, Karima is honoured to stand with the NWP team and ready to work hard to help New Westminster grow into the vibrant, thriving, opportunity-rich city that residents envision.
NW CITY MATTERS:
Consultation & Campaign Platform
On September 18th, Daniel Fontaine announced the launch of NW CITY MATTERS — a city-wide consultation to help shape the NWP’s 2026 campaign platform.
This initiative will engage residents across all 12 neighbourhoods of New Westminster through workshops, online surveys, pop-up booths,
door-to-door outreach, and more.
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates on when NW CITY MATTERS will be coming to your neighbourhood.
Testimonials for Daniel Fontaine
“Daniel Fontaine has been a strong voice for accountability at City Hall. I feel like someone is finally standing up for taxpayers in New West.”
Alysia K., Sapperton
“As a parent with kids in local schools, I’m encouraged that
the NWP is focused on safety
and community. It feels like
they’re actually listening to
families like mine.”
Carmen M., Queen’s Park
“I’ve seen Daniel volunteering
in the community for years.
He’s approachable, committed, and genuinely cares about
New Westminster.”
Chris. L., West End
“He understands how capital dollars should be invested in New West to improve infrastructure, services and opportunities for families like mine…”
Erica W., Queensborough
“The NWP team is a breath of fresh air. They’re willing to consult with residents and bring balance back to council decisions.”
Kelly S., Massey Victory Heights
“Living downtown, I see the impact of rising crime and public disorder every day. Daniel Fontaine has been one of the few councillors willing to speak up about it and push for real solutions. That’s why I support him
and the NWP.”
Dave P., Downtown
“The NWP and Daniel Fontaine have been consistently championing issues of concern to the residents of Quayside and that is most appreciated”
Enzo G., Quayside