The provincial government has listened to New Brunswickers this year about local governance reform and has released a report called “What We Heard”.
After a green paper was unveiled in April, more than 1,100 people attended 25 engagement sessions across the province and over 1,200 took an online survey.
“It is great to see such a high level of participation from local service districts, regional service commissions and local government representatives, as well as stakeholder groups and the general public,” said Local Government and Local Governance Reform Minister Daniel Allain.
It’s time to work together to establish a renewed and modern local governance system across NB and work together to empower all regions and communities of the province. https://t.co/t0gkFLXNai pic.twitter.com/XkNl9hDNjK
— Government of NB (@Gov_NB) September 9, 2021
“Along with the formal sessions, I have held about 140 informal meetings, virtually or in person, while following Public Health guidelines.”
The four main pillars discussed were the current local governance structure, regional collaboration, land use planning and financing the system.
“There were mixed opinions with regard to structure, however we heard support for ensuring all residents of the province have some form of local government representation through a democratic vote,” said Allain.
“Currently, about 30 per cent of New Brunswickers do not have such representation.”
Before a white paper is released this fall, eight in-person meetings are planned this month but participants must register online.
