Local Government Minister Jeff Carr (GNB website)
Saint John Mayor Don Darling was the deciding vote Thursday evening to table the sustainability report from the province for 30 days for more review.
After the meeting, Minister of Local Government Jeff Carr spoke to reporters and was asked if the government would look at property tax reform for large industries, which has been asked for in the city’s White Paper.
” We can discuss things like that if we want to get back to the table and talk about those specific items, property tax reform is in there it has to be a full package for the full province on property tax reform as well so we have to take into consideration how that item works for everybody,” stated Minister Carr.
However, Minister Carr says if the city wants to thrive once again it is going to have to go through tough measures first.
“If we can get through some of this short term pain, or as Councillor Gary Sullivan said it’s going to take some time to get through those special pension payments, but if we can get through this pain I believe the City of Saint John can be one of the wealthiest cities in Atlantic Canada, Bar none,” stated Minister Carr
The Minister also urged residents to read the report, and call their councillors if they like what they see in it.
