June 24, 2025
RED FM News Desk
NEW WESTMINSTER, B.C. – New Westminster city councillors voted on Monday to extend the permit for a controversial overdose prevention site located on Begbie Street.
The Starship Health Contact Centre, operated by the Purpose Society and Fraser Health, will now continue its operations for another 18 months. Councillors approved amendments to the permit, mandating that Fraser Health actively work to address community concerns surrounding the site.
The decision followed a divided public response, with the council agenda including 32 letters submitted by community members. Roughly half of these letters supported the permit extension, while the other half expressed opposition.
Supporters of the overdose prevention site emphasize its life-saving role in the community. Conversely, critics argue that the site is linked to an increase in crime and disruptive behavior in the surrounding area.
New Westminster Mayor Patrick Johnstone was notably among those who supported the site’s continued operation.
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