The new Saint John Common Council has been sworn in at a ceremony in the council chamber meaning Don Darling is now officially at the helm of the horseshoe.
Darling, who has 20 years of experience as a builder in the construction industry all over the Maritimes, came out victorious in a crowded five-person mayoral race that included former councillor Bill Farren and former deputy mayor of the city Shelley Rinehart. Darling replaces Mel Norton who chose not to reoffer for mayor after being elected in 2012 and who is running for the leadership of the provincial Progressive Conservative party.
Saint John’s new mayor Don Darling takes the oath of office during the swearing-in ceremony in the council chamber. pic.twitter.com/CrLoTaXnXv
— CHSJ News (@chsjnews) May 25, 2016
In his address following the swearing-in Darling said thank you to Saint John for choosing him as mayor.
“I’m exceptionally proud to take on this challenge,” said Darling “and I’m ready to focus my passion and energy on growing our economy, improving quality of life for everyone and providing solid leadership at city hall.”
The new deputy mayor Shirley McAlary, who has previously served as mayor, deputy mayor and most recently councillor-at-large spoke directly to Darling for part of her comments.
“I know that with your enthusiasm and your spirit that you’re going to have a wonderful four years and I know that every one of us here with help you in every way that we can,” said McAlary.
There are many returning members of council including: Ward 1 councillor Greg Norton, Ward 2 councillor John MacKenzie, Ward 3 councillors Gerry Lowe and Donna Reardon, and Ward 4 councillors David Merrithew and Ray Strowbridge. Fresh faces include the new councillor-at-large Gary Sullivan – who served one term as a Ward 2 councillor in 2008 – Ward 1 councillor Blake Armstrong and Ward 2 councillor Sean Casey.
“Mayor Darling and council: let’s get to work, we have great days ahead of us,” said Sullivan.
All three levels of government were represented at the ceremony in the council chamber with premier Brian Gallant in attendance as well as Saint John Harbour MLA Dr. Ed Doherty and Saint John-Rothesay MP Wayne Long. Mayor Darling told both Gallant and Long that he’s looking forward to working with them.
Wishing every success & expecting great things from #SJleaders @dondarlingSJ & #SJCouncil Many congratulations on being sworn in tonight!
— Mel Norton (@MelnortonNB) May 24, 2016
The next regular meeting of Common Council is next Monday, May 30.
