Saint John Mayor Don Darling will pursue a second term in this spring’s municipal election.
Darling made the announcement during a regular Facebook Live event on Saturday.
Darling says running for a second term is about finishing what he started.
He also says consistent leadership is crucial while the city is undergoing a massive restructuring.
“You know, I think we need someone in the Mayor’s office who knows the plan and the obstacles we’re going to face along the way, and I’ve got that deep understand, but most of all I have the commitment that it will take to get us there,” he said in an interview.
“I think it’s going to take an experienced Mayor to get that done, and I think I’m that guy.”
He says the city has big challenges ahead, and he wants to make sure the city stays on track with its growth and financial goals.
“It’s true that fixing our city’s finances and the road to growth is a huge challenge, but I think it’s worth it. For me, the decision came down to the fact that I can see the finish line,” he said.
He says the decision to run wasn’t one he made lightly.
“I have shared very openly the highs and the lows of the job, but despite that I think it’s worth it, and I think we’re on the cusp of some great prosperity here. We have momentum, and I think experienced leadership matters,” he said.
“it was a big decision, it’s a big commitment, and I guess what I’m announcing today is that I’m in.”
Darling says he plans to remain focused on the hard work ahead.
“We have a lot of work to do between now and the end of the term. That will be the focus. A campaign and all those things will kick off down the road,” he said.
A campaign website is up and running at don4mayor.ca.
So far, Darling is the first and only person to put their name forward for Mayor.
Those interested in running must have their nomination papers in by April 9th. The municipal election gets underway across the province on May 11th.
