Saint John Candidates Gearing Up For By-Election

Ward 3 Candidates Have Chance To Sell Themselves

More people turned out for a Meet the Ward 3 Candidates forum in the south end than expected although there was no debate. Each of the candidates got a chance to make their pitch and then answered questions.

 Former Deputy Mayor Michelle Hooten says she would not be in favour of getting rid of Enterprise Saint John but Anne Marie Mullin argues the city has to be more aggressive in attracting new businesses and jobs and Brian Boyd maintains there has to be more accountability.

Allen Leslie coming out against a 4-Plex ice surface at Long Wharf, claiming it would kill the uptown. Gerry Lowe also expressing his reservations with the worry that the neighbourhood arenas would be killed and would there be enough parking if the Sea Dogs, for instance, are playing at Harbour Station. Graeme Stewart-Robertson says he's in favour of a multi-ice surface but the big question is whether Long Wharf is the right location. 

Hooten says people want value for their tax dollars. Mullin argues the city's unionised workers will have to give a little because the city doesn't have any money and Lowe is suggesting the city, in its contract negotiations, should never opt for arbitration like it did with the firefighters. 

Lowe, Mullin, Hooten and Barb Ellemberg all touting their business experience.

One of the candidates Mark LeBlanc did not show up saying he didn't like the format because there was no debate among the candidates themselves.

Another Meet the Candidates Forum will be held tonight at the Carleton Community Centre with a starting time of 6:30.