City Releases Federal Election Position Paper

Saint John council has released a position paper for candidates running in the upcoming federal election.

The four-page paper, approved at Monday’s meeting, outlines several issues that are of concern to the city.

“In recent decades, the city had suffered significant declines in population and economic health,” said the paper. “Only recently has the city begun its resurgence through economic expansion and population growth.”

“The City of Saint John seeks government commitment to continue along the path of economic recovery and welcoming newcomers to our community.”

Common Council presented the city’s issues under two distinct categories: funding support and support for social services.

Under funding support, council wants to see direct federal funding for infrastructure projects, further opportunities to increase gas tax allocations, and continued support for climate change initiatives.

When it comes to supporting social services, the city wants to see additional support for affordable housing and homelessness, greater support for immigration, and an opportunity for Saint John to become home to new federal programs,

“Only by working together, will we continue to shape a thriving future for the Greater Saint John Region,” said the paper.

“The City of Saint John looks forward to understanding all Party platforms during this election campaign and how they will contribute to a growing, prosperous Saint John.”

All candidates are invited to respond by Sept. 1. Their responses will be included in the council agenda for the Sept. 7 meeting.

You can view the position paper on the city’s website.