📍 Tax tool divides local mayors

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Good morning, Saint John! Maine isn’t far, but every now and then it feels like another planet. Police found a naked man dancing at a lighthouse with a golf club last week. No word on his score, but our guess is the whole round was well over par.

Here’s what we’re hearing today:

Let’s get into it!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

One of the fun parts of a LifeDirt box is seeing what’s in season. Boxes feature a rotating mix of fruits and vegetables, prioritizing Maritime-grown produce and adding some extra variety as the local growing season changes.

Add bread, preserves and other local staples, choose delivery or pickup, and suddenly supporting local farms looks suspiciously convenient.

Explore LifeDirt’s new season of produce boxes starting September 10.

Mayors want tax to remain optional 🏗️

Saint John would like another tool for dealing with vacant lots. Rothesay would prefer everyone keep their hands off the toolbox.

The province is exploring whether municipalities should be allowed to tax undeveloped land, but the region’s mayors say each community should decide for itself. Saint John Mayor Donna Reardon supports using a levy on serviced residential lots that have been sitting empty for years, particularly in areas ready for more housing.

Quispamsis Mayor Mary Schryer says undeveloped land there is often waiting on water and other infrastructure, while Rothesay Mayor Matt Alexander considers the levy punitive and unnecessary. ($)

Province wants input on data centres 🖥️

New Brunswick is asking residents what rules should be in place if data centres start setting up shop in the province.

The government has released a proposed framework for public feedback, built around protecting power rates, limiting demands on water, land and infrastructure, and making sure projects bring jobs and other measurable benefits to the province.

It also proposes requiring community and First Nations consultation, while preventing discounted land or government incentives unless specifically approved. New Brunswickers can weigh in until October 2, with any resulting legislative changes expected to begin later this year.

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Here are some more events sent to us by our readers. Don’t forget to submit your events any time by clicking here.

2026 KV Craft Destash | September 12
More than 18 vendors are unloading their extra sewing, quilting, knitting, scrapbooking, cardmaking and cross-stitch supplies at Saint David’s United Church. The sale runs from 9 AM–1 PM with 28 tables of materials at rock-bottom prices, making it a good hunting ground for crafters, teachers, daycares and seniors’ groups. Admission is a cash or food donation for the church’s food basket…bring cash and shopping bags for your finds.

Rides at Rockwood | September 12
Hundreds of classics, customs, motorcycles, muscle cars, lifted trucks and other prized machines roll into Rockwood Park from 9 AM–4 PM. The family-friendly automotive show includes vendors, food, prizes and a burnout competition beginning at 4 PM. Spectators are asked to bring a toonie or non-perishable food item for local charities. If rain gets in the way, the whole thing moves to Sunday.

Mrs. Roper’s Romp for Cancer | October 3
The caftans are coming back out for Saint John’s fourth annual Mrs. Roper’s Romp, a 19+ fundraiser for the Canadian Cancer Society. The fun begins at AREA 506 before the Helens roam Uptown specials and return for ’70s and ’80s music from the Hailey McMillan Trio and Saving Sweet Polly. Admission is a minimum $25 online donation, with registration required by September 27. Last year’s romp raised more than $18,000!

Calling the SJHS Class of 2001 | Date TBD
The Saint John High School class of 2001 is planning the 25-year reunion it was denied by COVID five years ago. Organizers are aiming for mid-November and asking former classmates to join the Facebook group, reconnect and vote on the date that works best. Time to find out which old friends are still recognizable without the yearbook nearby.

There's plenty more happening. Find all this week’s local events here.

_{^{*Nothing in this section is sponsored, just things you need to know. We’ll always let you know if items are sponsored.}}

Watch this spot each Wednesday for a random snap from somewhere in the Saint John Region. Where are we? Only true locals will know the answer. Caught a bee doing its thing…no trickery, just a nice pic. Do you think you know where this is? Hit reply with your best guess and we’ll reveal the location and correct answers in Friday’s issue.

Be sure to send us your great local pics. Just hit reply and let’s see what your got…they could end up in this spot.

🌅 6:47am | 🌇 7:59pm

Today’s Tides 🌊

Reach Readers Daily!
Need to get the word out? Our baseline ads give you the perfect spot to connect with Saint John readers. With your message right next to the latest local buzz, it’s a great way to make an impact. Let's chat about getting you featured here!*

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Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone who who’s never afraid to show off their swing 🏌️.

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher