A New Westminster city councillor is raising questions about the taxpayer-funded cafeteria in city hall, pointing to its significant financial losses.
The cafeteria, located in the basement of city hall, is open to the public but mainly serves city staff. The menu includes affordable items like a $4 sandwich and a full breakfast starting at $5.75.
Councillor Daniel Fontaine highlighted that the cafeteria has lost nearly $350,000 of public funds in the past three years alone. He believes the cafeteria’s continued operation is hard to justify given nearby food options and the city’s sharp 23% property tax increase over the same period.
“With property taxes rising so quickly, it’s time to reconsider costly services like the cafeteria,” Fontaine said.
Despite this, Erika Mashig, deputy director of Parks, Policy and Planning for New Westminster, said the cafeteria remains a valuable city asset. She explained it meets specific needs for both city operations and the community.
The debate over the cafeteria’s future reflects broader concerns about municipal spending as residents face higher taxes. The council is expected to review the cafeteria’s role in upcoming budget discussions.
