News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – Environment and Local Government Minister Serge Rousselle issued the following statement today regarding the municipal byelections and plebiscite held on Oct. 23:

As the minister responsible for local government, I thank all candidates and I welcome the elected candidates to their new and important positions.

In this regard, I congratulate the new mayor for the Rural Community of Saint André. Voters in Grande-Anse, McAdam, Nigadoo, Petit-Rocher, and Rexton also filled council vacancies in their respective communities. I look forward to working with these newly elected officials.

In addition, residents in the local service districts of Keswick Ridge, Douglas, and Bright, as well as a portion of the local service districts of Kingsclear and Queensbury were afforded the opportunity to have the final say on a locally led community restructuring project. Results of the plebiscite showed that the voters in these communities did not support the project as it was presented. Community restructuring is voluntary and we respect the results of this democratic process.

I also thank Elections New Brunswick for ensuring voters were well-informed and well-served throughout the election process. Most importantly, I thank the New Brunswickers who took the time to exercise their right to vote. Voting is our chance to make a difference and ensures that community leaders are working to honour the wishes and priorities of their residents.

Strong community leaders who engage residents help to build vibrant communities. We need strong communities as we look to advance our priorities of creating jobs, being fiscally responsible and helping families.