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In todays edition:
Getting fired up over bad chargers 🔋
Council: Bus users get taken for a ride 🚌
Speed dates before the family grilling 💕
Let’s get it!
-Geoff Walsh, Publisher
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NEWS NOTES
Time to charge ‘er up! 🔋
Your phone spends enough time in bed with you. It can charge on the table.
Fire Prevention Week runs October 4–10, and the Saint John Fire Department is putting lithium-ion batteries in the spotlight. They power everything from phones to e-bikes, but damaged batteries and improper charging can turn everyday devices into fire hazards.
Some top tips include using a manufacturer-approved charger, charge on a hard, flat surface and unplug when full. If a battery gets unusually hot, swells, leaks, smells strange or starts hissing, stop using it. Keep charging equipment clear of exits, too.
Stations 2, 5 and 7 are also hosting open houses on October 5, 7 and 9, respectively, all from 2–7pm. Meet firefighters, tour the trucks and brush up on home fire safety, including working smoke alarms on every floor and an escape plan you’ve practiced.
And if you’re retiring an old battery, you can find a drop-off location here.
Give your phone a brake 🚗
Once your phone’s safely charged, it can safely be ignored. Especially behind the wheel.
Saint John Police will run a distracted driving campaign October 6–9, combining enforcement with reminders about what happens when your attention leaves the road. Possible consequences include fines, demerit points and crashes.
Set your GPS, mirrors and temperature before pulling away. Let a passenger handle devices or pull over somewhere safe if you need to use them. That “on my way” text is considerably less useful if you don’t make it there.
TONIGHT’S COUNCIL MEETINGS
⚖️ Saint John Council Meeting | October 5, 2026 - 6PM
On the agenda for the Saint John Common Council meeting this evening:
Snow-clearing changes considered - Council will consider improving winter clearing by redirecting three new sidewalk plows to routes already serviced, with sidewalk coverage expansion planned for 2028–2029. The plan identifies $520,200 in additions for consideration in the 2027 operating budget.
Uptown parking study ready for review - Council will receive a study examining parking availability, residential permits and accessibility across the South Central Peninsula. Staff will return later with recommendations for council endorsement.
Bus passes cost more than parking - Council will receive a transit commission letter questioning why a monthly bus pass costs more than parking at Peel Plaza. The already-approved adult pass increase takes effect January 1, bringing it to $84.75, compared with $80 for parking. Cash fares remain $3.
Aquatic Centre renewal and repair funding - Council will hear an update on the proposed Aquatic Centre renewal and consider raising concerns about the draft regional budget, which leaves out roughly $1.2 million in other facility repairs and funding to help maintain Aquatic Centre programs during construction.
Eight apartments proposed on City Road - A public presentation will open a 30-day comment period on a proposed eight-unit conversion at 26 Meadow Street/297 City Road. Written objections can be submitted to the city clerk until November 4.
The public is welcome to attend in person at City Hall’s second-floor council chamber, view on Rogers TV, or watch via live stream.
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EVENTS
What’s Happenin’
Here are a few things to look forward to this week. Don’t forget to send us your events any time!
TUESDAY
Pay Equity Act Public Consultation | October 6
New Brunswick is reviewing its pay equity legislation and inviting residents to weigh in at NBCC Saint John, Lecture Theatre A2143, 950 Grandview Avenue. The English session runs from 9–10:30am, followed by a French session at 10:30am, with translation available. Attend all or part to share your experiences and views on what needs work.
Try It Tuesday: Halloween Paint Bar | October 6
Maple Art & Craft brings a free Halloween paint bar to 1 Market Square at 6pm, with ghosts, pumpkins, skulls and other seasonal pieces ready for a brush. All ages can drop in, and the pieces, paints and supplies are included. Take your creation home and give the fridge something spooky to wear.
FRIDAY
Saint John Sea Dogs vs. Rouyn-Noranda Huskies | October 9
The Sea Dogs host the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies at 7pm at TD Station. Start Thanksgiving weekend with a little barking from the stands.
Saint John Speed Dating | October 9
Singles ages 30–40 can meet potential matches through a series of short dates at 7:30pm at Five & Dime. Give your swiping thumb the night off and see who clicks in person.
SATURDAY
Saint John Flames vs. Dalhousie Marauders | October 10
It could get a little rowdy as the Saint John Flames take on the Dalhousie Marauders at
7pm at the LBR. Bring some hometown noise for the Saturday-night matchup.
Bingo Bash: Through the Decades | October 10
Music bingo meets a throwback singalong at 24 Coburg Street at 8pm, with songs from the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s. Play on your phone for prizes throughout the night, including a $150 grand prize in the finale; newcomers get a walkthrough before play begins. Finally, a use for all those lyrics taking up space in your head.
*Nothing in this section is sponsored, just things you need to know. I’ll always let you know if items are sponsored.
Pets About Town
@SJTODAY
Maggie, Gracie and Sirano at Irving Nature Park. Three stunning dogs enjoying the views during a family meeting.
📸 Your pet deserves some local fame. Hit reply with a photo, their name and whatever local adventure they’re on!
SIDE NOTES
🌅 7:27AM | 🌇 6:56PM
Today’s Tides 🌊
Low Tide | 1:24 AM(Mon 05 October) | 1.45 m(4.76 ft) |
High Tide | 7:40 AM(Mon 05 October) | 6.97 m(22.88 ft) |
Low Tide | 1:54 PM(Mon 05 October) | 1.78 m(5.84 ft) |
High Tide | 8:09 PM(Mon 05 October) | 7.41 m(24.31 ft) |
*indicates sponsored content
Thanks!
Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone who loves to be a part of everything going on! 🎉
-Geoff Walsh - Publisher