Should councillors earn more?

Good morning Saint John! If you’ve been looking for a sign to extend your weekend, this is it. Seriously, why do Mondays come so fast? You deserve one more day off…☕

Here’s what’s kicking off the week:

• More slowdowns out east 🐢

• UNBSJ study finds exercise helps colon cancer patients 🩺

• If you like books and theatre, this is your week! 🎭

Let’s get into it!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

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NEWS NOTES

🚦Traffic slow-down on the east side

Starting today, the always-busy McAllister/Westmorland intersection is down to one lane each way for the next 45 days. Crews are upgrading traffic lights, storm drains, and sidewalks, basically giving the corner a much-needed refresh. With back-to-school shopping in full swing, expect traffic to move slower than the drive-thru on a Saturday. 

⛔ Harbour Bridge full closure at 6pm

DTI has confirmed the Harbour Bridge will close at 6pm tonight for about 20 minutes while crews carry out jacking operations. Expect delays and plan your route accordingly.

🏃 17 years, 22 minutes a day, big results

Saint John’s Dr. Anthony Reiman helped lead a 17-year international study showing just 22 minutes of moderate daily exercise can significantly improve survival for colon cancer patients. Locally, patients at Saint John Regional Hospital can already take part in the YMCA’s Stay Strong rehab program, putting these findings into action. Reiman hopes studies like this will push structured exercise to become a standard part of cancer care.

🚢 Cruise ship day challenge

Working at Market Square for a few years, cruise ship days were always my favourite. The question I got asked more than any other? “What does the highest tides in the world actually mean?” I’m guessing tourists are told a few amazing local facts, then set loose to figure out what’s what around here…

With 3,600 visitors aboard the Majestic Princess today, you just might get that question yourself. If you missed it when it launched earlier this year, Envision Saint John has a cool Local Ambassador program. It’s a self-paced course that covers all the local trivia you should know when the waterfront suddenly fills with curious visitors. Check it out and test your local knowledge or learn something new!

COUNCIL MEETING

🏛 Saint John Common Council Meeting | August 18, 6 pm

• Democratic reform motion — Councillor Harris proposes reducing council to six councillors plus one mayor, paying councillors $59,000/year, the deputy mayor $65,000/year, introducing annual performance reviews, and allowing the mayor to vote on all motions to improve engagement and accountability.

• Water system updates — Plans for unidirectional water system flushing and phosphate purchases for corrosion control are up for approval, affecting local water service and quality.

• Animal enforcement rules — Council will explore new ways to handle complaints about backyard animals, including chickens, goats, and other livestock. Staff will report back on potential enforcement tools and fines to address ongoing neighbourhood issues.

• Spruce Lake and Latimore Lake developments — Council will review citizen letters submitted after public hearings on the Spruce Lake Industrial Park expansion and Latimore Lake Road project.

See the full agenda.

The meeting takes place in the 2nd floor Council Chamber, City Hall. Attend in person, watch on Rogers TV or via livestream.

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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

Fundy Fringe Festival | August 19-23
Experience 13 years of boundary-pushing theatre and performances at the Fundy Fringe Festival. From local acts like A Schooner Called Dart and Wonderful World of Wayne to national and international shows, there’s something for everyone. All festivals are un-juried, uncensored, accessible, and give 100% of ticket sales back to the artists. Check the full schedule and grab tickets for this amazing local festival!

Music at Portland Summer Series | August 19
Ron Maloney brings the hits from the ’50s, ’60s, ’70s, and beyond to Portland United Church (50 Newport Crescent) at 7pm. Expect country, classics, and rock ‘n’ roll—toe-tapping and sing-alongs encouraged! Free admission, with donations to the North End Food Bank gratefully accepted.

WEDNESDAY

Quispamsis Community Fall Expo | August 20
Swing by the McCluskey Brothers Conference Centre at Qplex (20 Randy Jones Way) from 6:30pm–7:30pm to explore all the sports, arts, and programs happening this fall and winter. Families can get info, register on the spot, and see what the community has to offer. One stop, lots of opportunities, and plenty of local energy!

THURSDAY

Big Book Sale | August 21-24
Celebrate 20 years of the Annual Big Book Sale at TD Station! Early Bird Evening kicks off Thursday, August 21, 5-8pm (ticket required), followed by full sale hours Friday–Sunday, including Fill a Box Day on Sunday. Find gently-loved books, support Big Brothers Big Sisters of Saint John, and enjoy a treasure hunt for all ages. Cash or card accepted, and donations are welcome until August 14.

FRIDAY

Rothesay Yard Sale | August 22-23
Hunt for books, toys, household goods, Christmas items, small appliances, and more at St. Paul’s on the Common. All proceeds go to local charities, so you can snag some treasures while supporting the community.

SATURDAY

KBM Summer Send Off | August 23
Join the KBM Outing Association at 2452 Westfield Rd from 12pm–4pm for a fun-filled afternoon for the whole family! Bounce on two incredible castles (one is the largest in the Maritimes!), enjoy face painting, field games, music, and summer activities. BBQ, treats, and refreshments will be available for purchase. Donations and proceeds support the Tennis Court refurbishment project!

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SIDE NOTES

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Thanks!

Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone that thinks Monday is a fun day. 🙄

-Geoff Walsh - Publisher

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