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- 💬 Mayor’s Take on Wolastoq Rezoning
💬 Mayor’s Take on Wolastoq Rezoning
SJ Today
April 10, 2025
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Good morning, Saint John! It’s National Siblings Day - time to remind your sibling who’s really the favourite! 👑
Here’s the lowdown for the day:
SJ Mayor speaks out about Wolastoq Park 🗣️
Gas stations getting inspected 🧐
What’s going on this weekend 📅
Let’s get to it!
-Geoff Walsh, Publisher
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NEWS NOTES
🌳 Mayor responds to Chamber criticism over Wolastoq Park rezoning
Mayor Donna Reardon is pushing back after the Saint John Region Chamber of Commerce suggested the Common Council “rejected” JDI’s $1.1 billion NextGen expansion. In a detailed open letter Wednesday, the Mayor clarified that Council fully supports the project, which is moving ahead at JDI’s existing west side mill, but voted only on whether part of Wolastoq Park should be permanently rezoned for a 506-stall construction parking lot. Instead, Council approved a five-year compromise: temporary use as a lot, with zoning reverting to parkland unless a new application is made.
The Mayor disputed claims of missed investments, saying there was no confirmed funding tied to the zoning vote and that JDI’s revised offer, including millions in park upgrades and Harbour Passage improvements, could still move forward. After more than 10 hours of public hearings and a Planning Advisory Committee review, Council landed on what Reardon called a “principled, balanced, and future-ready” decision. “This wasn’t a ‘no’ to the project,” she wrote, “but a ‘yes, with conditions.’”
⛽ Spill prompts province-wide fuel station crackdown
After a diesel leak at a Woodstock Irving station in December, the province says it's not just mopping up… it’s looking under the hood at gas stations across New Brunswick. Environment Minister Gilles LePage says all retail fuel sites will now be inspected to make sure they’re properly equipped to detect and manage spills.
The Woodstock leak, traced to a cracked pipe fitting, didn’t reach any drinking wells or nearby wetlands, but cleanup is still underway. Irving Oil has been named the responsible party and is footing the bill for site remediation. The province says this goes beyond routine inspections and is responding to concerns from local leaders and the Wolastoqey Nation. More updates are promised as the investigation rolls on.
🧹Litter = Loot in Grand Bay-Westfield
Calling all do-gooders with a knack for trash bags - Grand Bay-Westfield wants to pay your organization to clean up the town. Their annual Community Litter Clean-Up Program is back, offering local not-for-profits $200 per kilometre to tackle roadside litter and ditch debris. That's right: pick up junk, get paid. Top target zones include Brittain, Campbell, and River Valley Drive…basically anywhere a Tim’s cup might roll. Apply online or grab a paper form at Town Hall by April 30.
*Nothing in this section is sponsored, just things you need to know. We’ll always let you know if items are sponsored.
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EVENTS
What’s Happenin’
Weekend Preview
Weekend plans? We’ve got you. From gravity-defying acrobats to Ukrainian vibes, it’s all happening. Let’s make this weekend legendary!
TODAY
Building Confidence at Work | April 10
Fusion Saint John, in partnership with NBCC, invites you to a professional development session with Diane Burt, Ed.D. Join Diane for a discussion on tools to build confidence and assertiveness in the workplace and while networking. This is a free session, but registration is required. Coffee and snacks will be provided. 8-9am at 1 Germain Street, Suite #1600.
FRIDAY
Handworks Underground - The Artists' Closet | April 11-12
For two days only, Handworks Gallery invites you to Handworks Underground – The Artists' Closet. Local artists will showcase unique, one-of-a-kind pieces straight from their personal collections. Explore original works on paper and canvas, exploratory art, and hidden gems at special prices. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just searching for something special, this in-person event is not to be missed.
Wellness Café National Pet Day | April 11
Join the Saint John Newcomers Centre for a special Wellness Café celebrating National Pet Day. This cozy gathering will feature crafts, storytelling, and conversations about the pets who bring joy to our lives. Whether you have a pet or simply love animals, come share stories, learn about the wellness benefits of pets, and enjoy creative activities. Registration is required. 5pm at SJNC.
5th Psychic Fair | April 11-12
Oh My Soul and Journey are hosting their 5th Psychic Fair at the Dennis Morris Community Centre. The event features psychics, mediums, palm readings, astrology charts, oracle readers, intuitive healers, Reiki, massage, hypnotherapy, reflexology, chocolate readings, and henna. Plus, check out an amazing lineup of vendors with crystals, gemstones, jewelry, soaps, and more. Friday 5-8:30pm, Saturday 10am-4pm. Admission: $2.00.
SATURDAY
Easter Photoshoot at Pet Valu | April 12
Hop on over to Pet Valu for their annual Easter photoshoot! This year, they've partnered with Groomingdales Pet Salon, Hearts of the North Dog Rescue, and special guest photographer Jessie McLean, owner of Reid Photography. Bring your furry friends for a memorable photo session! 11am-3pm at 175 Old Hampton Road, Rothesay.
The Peking Acrobats | April 12
For over three decades, The Peking Acrobats have amazed audiences with their breathtaking feats of skill and strength. Watch them defy gravity with trick-cycling, precision tumbling, juggling, somersaulting, and contortion, all set to live traditional Chinese music and high-tech effects. This one-of-a-kind performance brings the festive pageantry of a Chinese Carnival to the stage. 2pm at Imperial Theatre.
Blues with Scott Medford & Instigators | April 12
Join Five & Dime for a soul-stirring afternoon of blues with Scott Medford & The Instigators. Expect gritty guitar, smooth vocals, and classic blues energy that’ll have you swaying all afternoon. Sponsored by Fundy Harbour Group, this show is FREE with no cover charge. 2-4pm
Ukraine Through the Times | April 12
Step into a world where history sings, art breathes, and tradition comes alive at Ukraine Through the Times, a cultural celebration of Ukraine’s rich heritage. This unforgettable evening features performances by the concert group "Mattinata Ukraine," the Saint John ART LAB, and the Ukrainian Choir "Oberig." Experience classical and folk music, theatrical storytelling, and vibrant visual art that bring Ukraine’s spirit to life. 6pm at Saint John Arts Centre
East Coast Emo Night | April 12
Get ready to relive your emo phase at Wasted Day Brewing with Shellingwolf spinning all your nostalgic faves. From 8-11:30pm, this is your chance to set your inner emo kid free with great tunes and an amazing atmosphere.
SUNDAY
Easter Eggstravaganza | April 13
Join the fun at the Milford Memorial Community Centre for the Easter Eggstravaganza! This free event is open to all children and features lots of eggs to find, prizes to win, and a free snack. Be sure to bring your own basket! All ages are welcome, but space is limited, so call ahead to register by leaving a message with the number of kids attending. 11am at 248 Milford Road, Saint John.
*Nothing in this section is sponsored, just things you need to know. We’ll always let you know if items are sponsored.
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SIDE NOTES
Today’s Tides 🌊
Low Tide | 5:08 AM(Thu 10 April) | 1.54 m(5.05 ft) |
High Tide | 11:15 AM(Thu 10 April) | 7.38 m(24.21 ft) |
Low Tide | 5:30 PM(Thu 10 April) | 1.44 m(4.71 ft) |
High Tide | 11:36 PM(Thu 10 April) | 7.43 m(24.38 ft) |
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Thanks!
Thanks for reading SJ Today - if you found it useful, share it with your sibling, who’s clearly less informed than you. 🤷♂️
-Geoff Walsh, Publisher