Moncton residents share their thoughts about a white Christmas and their hopes for the new year.

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A police operation and shelter-in-place alert for a northside neighbourhood concluded after a federal parolee was arrested Monday afternoon, the police force reports.

The Fredericton Police Force advised people through social media just before noon Monday to avoid the area of Barton Crescent.

“The Fredericton Police Force is currently responding to an active operation on Barton Crescent involving a barricaded individual,” it said.

“Residents are advised to shelter in place, and the public should avoid the area to allow police to work safely and efficiently.”

A shelter-in-place alert is a precautionary measure directing people to remain inside their homes and workplaces.

At 2:43 p.m., the force followed up and advised the operation had concluded and revealed the reason for the standoff.

“The Fredericton Police Force has concluded their operation on Barton Crescent. The shelter-in-place advisory is lifted, and traffic flow has returned to normal,” it said..

“The barricaded individual - 36-year-old Catlin William Morehouse, who was unlawfully at large on a Canada-wide warrant - has been taken into custody.”

This isn’t the first time city police officers have arrested Morehouse on a warrant related to alleged violations of his conditions of release from federal prison.

The force issued an advisory Aug. 15, 2023, asking for information about his whereabouts, and that same afternoon, it followed up that he’d been arrested.

Don MacPherson can be contacted at [email protected].

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EcoRock Dalhousie Inc., the company behind the mine proposal, is forming a steering committee that will include residents.

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A Fredericton man who’s in custody in a Québec correctional facility is facing serious charges back at home, including possessing items for trafficking, such as Oxycodone and stolen stamps.

Yes, Canada Post stamps.

George Edward Andrew Joseph Pearce, 51, of Eastwood Street, appeared in Fredericton provincial court by telephone Friday from a jail in Rimouski, Que., to answer to a variety of criminal charges alleged to have been committed closer to home.

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Give the gift of local news

Christmas (with the other concurrent holidays around it) is a magical time of year for so many, with decorations and holiday spirit brightening people’s days.

But if you’re like me, it can also be a stressful time as well, because there’s so much to do, including organizing one’s thoughts and time to ensure one gets ideal gifts for those close to you.

Allow me for this brief moment to remove my journalist’s cap (traditionally, a fedora with a PRESS card in the band) and don something suitable for a salesman (a top hat?), as I shift into marketing mode for the Fredericton Independent.

If you’re on the hunt for a novel gift that’s easy to arrange, may I suggest a paid subscription to the Independent?

Full access on a monthly basis is just $9 per month, or one can essentially get two months for free by signing up for a $90 annual subscription.

No other local media outlet covers the local courts as thoroughly as we do here, and through the Substack platform, it’s a source of news that’s easily accessible and consumed. Subscribers can read new articles through the Substack app or on the web, and all subscribers get copies of stories delivered directly to their email inboxes as soon as they’re published.

While focusing on criminal justice and the courts, the Fredericton Independent also explores other topics, including the occasional upbeat feature and breaking news alerts about the weather, missing persons and other pressing issues.

Since launching in late January 2023, the Independent has seen its audience grow steadily, and even with a paywall model coming into effect earlier this year, that support and interest has continued and is encouraging.

My hope is the Fredericton Independent will continue to grow in 2025, and you can show support for local journalism and give the gift of information by joining the numbers of readers with unrestricted access to our reporting.

If things continue on an upward trend, you could see the Independent expand its complement of reporters and the extent of its coverage of local news.

What’s more, there’s never any lineup at the checkout to give the gift of journalism, and it’s easy to wrap.

The other added benefit to gifting someone a subscription is the fact you’ll be supporting local journalism. An informed community is a stronger community, empowered with knowledge in the push for change.

Just click here or on the “Give the gift of local news” button on this post. You can even schedule the gift subscription to kick in on a specific date (Dec. 25 seems like a natural choice for many).

And let me take this opportunity to thank all my readers - with free and paid subscriptions - for their attention and support over the past two years. Your interest has been incredibly encouraging and always appreciated!

Happy holidays, everyone, and may you be comfortable and content in the weeks and year ahead - as well as well informed!

Don MacPherson can be contacted at [email protected].

Give the gift of local news

New Brunswickers wishing for a white Christmas are in luck, those hoping for easy Christmas Eve travels may be out of it.

Cold temperatures a challenge for firefighters

A camp at Skiff Lake is destroyed after a fire early Sunday morning.

Canterbury Firefighters responded to a report of a structure fire on Owl’s Nest Lane just after 7:25 a.m. on Dec. 22.

“With (temperatures of) -17, and a windchill of-24, the air was heavy so cold really penetrated,” said Canterbury Fire Chief Michael Furrow.

Chief Furrow said the structure was fully involved when firefighters arrived on the scene.

“It was very cold and quite breezy making the conditions a challenge as hoses were freezing,” said Chief Furrow.

The North Lake Fire Department sent a tanker truck to provide mutual aid for water shuttling. NB Power and the RCMP were also on the scene.

In a social media post, Chief Furrow thanked all those who helped, including the Canterbury Ladies Auxiliary, which provided warm drinks and food for firefighters who were battling the blaze in extreme temperatures.

A fire investigator with the provincial fire marshal’s office is working to determine the cause.

The post Skiff Lake fire destroys camp first appeared on River Valley Sun.

The organizing committee for the Greater St. Stephen Sports Wall of Fame is seeking more applications from members of the community who have contributed to their favourite sport. 

Pictures of sports enthusiasts, athletes, coaches, and volunteers are on the wall in the Garcelon Civic Centre. 

“I think it was pretty quick and pretty easy to say, you know what, we’ve got a beautiful facility here, let’s celebrate it,” said board member Jamie Waycott. “There was some space there that was underutilized and prominent.” 

The wall was started by Joe Peters, who passed away in October. 

“Joey was our founder,” said Don Walker, also a member of the board. “If we have to name one person who was in charge of creating this, this concept, and this wall of fame, it would be Joe.” 

The two men are hoping to continue the tradition of adding individual community members to the wall through the application process. 

“It’s about being proud of who we are and proud of where we’re from and celebrating some of our athletes and builders, people who have contributed to our community,” said Waycott. 

While Waycott said the application process has been modernized a bit, it is cumbersome and requires time. There are many things the group considers before honouring any nominees. 

Joe Peters, left, pictured with an honoree, and Jamie Waycott. (Greater St. Stephen Sports Wall of Fame/Facebook)

“We look at the level and the significance of their achievements, their contributions in sport and the greater St. Stephen community,” Waycott said. 

Applications are due on January 10, they said, so nominations for this year are likely not realistic, but explain people could get started for next year. 

“It still is work because you need supporting documents, but we’ve streamlined it, and its a fairly user-friendly document now, and we can help fill in some blanks where where where appropriate,” Waycott said.  “So, that’s the process.” 

In the end, though, this will be about honouring their friend and St. Stephen sportsman Joe Peters, they explained. At a ceremony on May 24 – also Peters’s birthday – his family will receive a plaque on the wall of fame in his memory. 

“He will not go on as a builder or as an athlete or as a team,” Walker said. “Of course, he’s going to go on the wall as our founder.” 

Peters was told of this honour before he passed, the two said. 

“I’m going to say it was a very emotional moment for everyone involved to tell him that he was so pleased,” Walker explained. “He was even part of the process of how it was going to look. He wanted to have a say in how he would be presented on the wall.” 

The group has also established a scholarship in Peters named for $2,000. 

Applications are available on the Municipal District of St. Stephen’s website or on the Greater St. Stephen Sports Wall of Fame Facebook page.

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A 16-year-old boy from western New Brunswick sexually abused his younger sister for three years, beginning when she was only nine, a court heard last week.

The teenage offender appeared in Fredericton youth court for a sentencing hearing Friday, having previously pleaded guilty to counts of sexual assault and touching a minor for a sexual purpose between Jan. 1, 2021, and July 12, 202.

Given his age, his identity is protected under the provisions of the Youth Criminal Justice Act, as is the identity of his younger sister, the victim in the case.

The family lives in a rural area of western New Brunswick, and the Fredericton Independent isn’t specifying where the abuse occurred either so as to avoid identifying the young people.

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Most retail and grocery stores in New Brunswick will be closed on Wednesday for Christmas Day and will remain closed on Thursday for Boxing Day. Transit won't operate on those days either and will end early on Christmas Eve.

Of the over 200 military toys that line the shelves at the New Brunswick Military History Museum, many are from volunteer David Makepeace’s personal collection. He says the simple design of toy soldiers helps account for their enduring appeal.

Premier Susan Holt says her government would be willing to ban the herbicide glyphosate if a new investigation finds a link to the purported mystery brain illness that a Moncton neurologist says he is tracking.

Growth in tax base helps the town meet growing infrastructure and service demands like expanding the police force, new fire hall, and town hall

An additional $1.2 million in Woodstock’s tax warrant will help it meet the growing operational and capital demands while keeping tax-rate increases to a minimum. 

Council approved the $17.96 million general operating budget and $2.17 million utility budget at its regular council meeting on Dec. 17.

The budget holds the tax rate for Ward 4, the former town limits, at $1.50 per $100 of assessment. Wards 1, 2, 3 and 5 property owners will see their municipal tax rate increase from 70 to 72 cents per $100 of assessment, less than the five-cent jump anticipated to cover the cost of Woodstock Police Force’s pending expansion to cover all wards. 

The town’s utility budget grew by one per cent, but ratepayers will not know the impact on the water and sewer bills until January. The new rates will take effect in the June billing period. 

Woodstock Director of Finance Jennifer Crabbe and Mayor Trina Jones offered an expansive description and explanation of the budget decisions. 

Crabbe addressed the council, explaining that the general operating budget would increase by 7.9 per  cent. 

She said Woodstock’s tax assessment base grew by 8.6 per cent for 2025 to $1.25 billion, noting that 1.76 per cent resulted from new construction and 6.82 per cent due to reassessment. 

Crabbe outlined the impact on homeowners, noting the average assessment increases would see a home valued at $300,000 in 2024 increase to $329,000 in 2025. For homeowners in Ward 4, even with the tax rate unchanged, the tax bill would grow by $455 total tax of $4,945. 

Property owners in the outlying wards will see rising assessments on a $300,000 home add $207.90 to their tax bill, while the two-cent increase in the tax rate would add another $65.94 for a total of $2,373.84 to the 2025 tax bill. 

Crabbe noted that represents only the Woodstock share of property tax, explaining the outlying wards also face a provincial tax of .4115 cents per $100 assessment, adding another $1,356.72 for a total tax bill of $3,730.56. 

While budget discussions clarified the tax rates and potential tax bill increases for the general operating budget, property owners must wait to see how much they will pay for water and sewer. 

Mayor Jones explained utility rates must fund all water and sewer needs. While the council approved the one per cent increase in the utility budget, it won’t determine its impact on rates until January. 

“We’ll have no choice but to increase the rates,” said Jones. 

She explained that the council plans to dedicate its second regular meeting in January to discuss water. 

“So, that will be a hardy meeting, and that will give staff time to determine what their recommendations are going to be for how the rate increase will impact the different tiers we have today,” Jones said. “That is going to be a really long, good, healthy discussion on everything water.” 

She noted rate changes would not take effect until the June billing period. 

The first signs of the town’s plans to expand the Woodstock Police Force coverage beyond Ward 4 over the next few years showed up in the 2025 budget. 

The mayor explained the two-cent increase in the tax rate for outlying wards reflects the beginning of rate increases, which could reach as high as 15 cents over three years. She indicated the town managed to reduce this year’s hike to two cents from the previously indicated five cents. 

Jones said the town hopes to share a more detailed plan in 2025, solidifying the timing and tax impact of the police expansion. 

“The expansion of policing will be a lot of work,” she said. 

Jones noted that the town received $4.3 million in transitional funds from the province to support the policing changes in 2025, and the province committed another $1.5 million in 2025. She hopes the new government honours that commitment. 

She noted those funds are directed solely for use on police expansion. 

Jones said the town is fully committed to moving forward with the expansion, adding town officials, Woodstock Police Force leadership, the RCMP, and provincial officials will meet soon to determine the procedure and timing of the changes. 

Jones said the town’s focus on major capital expenditures over the next few years will include the police force. 

She noted that the town faces spacing issues on several fronts, including the fire hall, town hall, and police station. 

“The good news is we’re looking at a new fire hall home,” Jones said. 

She hopes the town can lock down the details surrounding what a new fire hall would house, citing the possibilities of a fire hall plus a police station or a fire hall plus a town hall. 

Jones added that the town owns the building currently housing the police, fire, and town hall. 

“Looking to see if we can use that building for a purpose,” she said. 

Jones outlined several highlights of the $1.77 million in community improvements and capital projects in the 2025 budget. 

In addition to new vehicles and equipment for public works, including an asphalt hot box to recycle milled pavement, the mayor cited upgrades to the wastewater system. 

Jones noted the town’s commitment of $200,000, with matching funds from other sources, to complete a sidewalk of some style along Deakin Drive from Connell Street to Turner Street. 

She said the town will also invest in significant boat launch improvements on the town’s waterfront, including a kayak launch. The budget also sets funding aside for a feasibility study surrounding the possibility of adding an amphitheatre and washrooms on the waterfront. 

While admitting it falls short of needs, Jones said the budget includes $630,000 for paving. The budget also includes funds for sidewalk repairs and an assessment of the accessibility of sidewalks. 

The mayor said a traffic feasibility study will review current traffic lights, pedestrian lights, crosswalks and potential traffic-calming measures, which could include “roundabouts.” 

Coun. Jeff Bradbury welcomed the positive news regarding a sidewalk or walking path for Deakin Drive, noting, “That’s been on the radar quite a while.” 

Sticking with Deakin Drive, he said, the traffic feasibility study should consider a potential traffic circle at the intersection of Deakin, Main Street and the Grafton Bridge. 

Crabbe said part of the budget increase covers additional staff. 

She explained that most of the 23 percent increase in the general government’s expenses resulted from two new positions. 

Crabbe said the town remains in a solid financial position, noting Woodstock’s debt ratio remains at three per cent, far below the allowable 20 per cent. 

The post Woodstock approves 2025 budget with big projects on horizon first appeared on River Valley Sun.

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Personnel from all four fire stations in the capital responded to an uptown business Sunday evening to battle the blaze in frigid temperatures.

Numerous Fredericton Fire Department vehicles were on the scene at the Pizza Hut location at the top of Smythe Street on Sunday night, and firefighters could be seen being elevated to fight the fire from above.

The business also boasts new signage indicating another chain - Osmow’s Shawarma - is setting up shop in the location.

Assistant deputy fire chief David McKinley told the Fredericton Independent on Sunday evening that the call came in at 7:19 p.m.

He said the fire was reported initially to be in the ductwork at the business.

“They are still on scene and so far, the damage has been contained to the ductwork,” McKinley wrote in an email at 8:15 p.m.

He noted that personnel and equipment from all four Fredericton fire stations responded to the blaze.

McKinley didn’t give any indication of injuries or what the extent of the damage might prove to be.

Don MacPherson can be contacted at [email protected].

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Three North Atlantic right whales have been spotted entangled in fishing gear off the coast of the U.S. just this month. Two are not expected to survive.

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It looks like Santa might have some contend with some significant winter weather as he makes his way around southern New Brunswick on Tuesday night, according to the federal weather service.

Environment and Climate Change Canada issued a special weather statement early Sunday morning for the southern band of the province, including Fredericton and surrounding communities.

“A developing system may affect the province on Christmas Eve,” it said.

“While it is too soon to provide specific details, the potential exists for significant amounts of snow.”

At this point, the weather service is predicting the snow will begin Tuesday morning and continue to Tuesday night.

The same system is expected to have a similar impact on central and western Nova Scotia, so bear that in mind if you’re planning on travelling in the Maritimes on Christmas Eve as well.

The Fredericton Independent can be reached at [email protected].

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A prized family artifact from 100 years ago shows that some Christmas traditions have stayed the same.

A class project at a Saint John high school has put unsung New Brunswick history in the spotlight and helped earn the teacher a Governor General’s award.

Weeds, Seeds, and Garden Deeds

By Michelle Corcoran

‘Tis the time of year that many of us trek into the woods, or Christmas Tree lot, in search of the PERFECT Christmas tree.  This is followed by the journey home (after strapping it well in the back), then groaning and moaning about putting on the “lights.” only after you have them all strung do you realize parts are not working, something isn’t plugged in or burnt out. There has been many a choice word at this stage of the holidays everywhere, I have no doubt.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Tree

1. Fresher trees are more fragrant!
2. Check for needle drop. Rub your hands through the tree and check the ground. If needles start falling off, the tree is dried out and won’t last long. If you are cutting your own tree, this is less of an issue.
3. Look for damaged branches – they may turn brown soon.
4. Choose the right variety of trees for your home. Some are less allergenic.
5. Choose the right size – ensure it will fit in your room (and door) and is not too tall!

Some Traditional Trees (there are lots more out there) Your tree lot owner will have great advice – shop local!:

Balsam Fir – classic tree, good shape, dark green, most fragrant.  Strong branches and can hold good-sized ornaments.

Fraser Fir – hardy, lasts a long time indoors, less needle drop, and has a nice scent.  It tends to have strong branches/ needles for ornaments.

Pine (Like white or Scotch) – soft needles, little scent (may be better for allergies).  This variety needs lots of watering to keep needles well.  Bows are good for greenery. Pine can be toxic to cats.

Hardwood trees – like birch or poplar. They do reasonably well with little care (other than propping up).

Caring for your tree once its home

• Freshly cut the bottom of the tree so it will absorb water better; two to three inches should do
• Keep the tree cooler; it will help keep it fresher.
• Water EVERY day (or more).  Cover the water in the tree stand so no one gets into it. Even small tree needles can cause gut issues if swallowed.
• Try a tree water preservative (add to the water) to help reduce needle drop and keep hydrated. SPECIAL NOTE: (commercial or homemade ones) can cause stomach upset in kids and pets.
• Don’t add medications like aspirin or alcohol to the water – they are harmful to a child or animal.
• Keep FIRE SAFE – trees should be at least 3 feet away from heaters, fireplaces, candles, wood stoves, etc. and make sure it doesn’t block an exit.  Trees are wood -wood is flammable.  It can take less than a minute for your whole room to catch fire.

After the holidays, look for tree recycling spots – most municipalities offer this service.  Or keep them in your backyard for the birds.

See you next year!  Happy Holidays!

The post COLUMN: O’ Christmas Tree, O’ Christmas Tree… first appeared on River Valley Sun.

Superfan Fred Best said it will be sad to see the Acadie-Bathurst Titan leave for Newfoundland at the end of the season, but he will always support the team.

The storm coincides with the winter solstice, marking the shortest day of the year and the official start of winter.

Suspect arrested for assault near Woodstock Legion

A suspect wanted in connection with a serious assault outside the Woodstock Legion has been taken into custody.

Takoda Louis Lee Christian, 19, of Woodstock, formerly of Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation), was arrested on a warrant on Dec. 20. He was placed on weekend remand to await a bail hearing on Dec. 23 at 1:30 p.m.

Woodstock Police charged Christian with aggravated assault following an incident outside the Royal Canadian Legion in Woodstock on Nov. 14 around 8:55 p.m. Police were called to the scene, and a man was transported to the hospital for treatment of serious injuries.

Neqotkuk man awaits sentencing

Jordan Perley, 36, of Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation), appeared in provincial court in custody on Dec. 20 for sentencing on charges laid by RCMP.

After hearing submissions from both the crown and defence counsel, Judge Karen Lee reserved her decision on sentence until Dec. 24 at 9:30 a.m.

Perley was denied bail in June. On Dec. 20, he pleaded guilty to breaking into a dwelling house with intent to commit an assault with a weapon (a stick), mischief causing property damage, and uttering threats concerning an incident on May 17 at Neqotkuk. The crown withdrew five other charges.

Perley also pleaded guilty to mischief causing property damage to a door and window on Jan. 1 at Neqotkuk and guilty to mischief and possession of a prohibited weapon (a butterfly knife), on March 18 at Neqotkuk.

He also pleaded guilty to failing to appear in court on April 9. The crown withdrew four other charges. Perley had a prior criminal record.

During the sentencing hearing, the court heard Perley went on a drug-fuelled rampage that involved a cluster of incidents over a period of months.

Crown Prosecutor Charles Couturier explained Perley was causing trouble for his neighbours, and his actions eventually ended in a home invasion and violent assault on a woman at an apartment building on May 17.

The crown recommended that Perley be sentenced to 330 days in jail or time served, followed by 24 months of probation. Couturier said Perley should register with the federal DNA database and requested that the accused be prohibited from possessing weapons for life. He also suggested that Perley seek counselling for mental health and substance abuse. The butterfly knife seized by police will be forfeited to the crown.

Defence Counsel Lindsay Paul said Perley was remorseful for his crimes, noting he did not intend to hurt anyone during his rampage through the community. She contended Perley was on drugs and out of control when the incidents occurred. He has been sober for the last several months while in custody.

“I apologize for my past crimes,” Perley told the court.

Judge Lee stated Perley was at high risk of reoffending without rehabilitation. She reserved her decision due to the seriousness of the home invasion and the joint submission from the crown and defence for a lighter sentence.

Guilty plea on two charges

Caleb Crain, 40, of Piercemont, appeared for trial in provincial court on Dec. 20 and changed his plea to guilty on two charges laid by RCMP. His sentencing was set for March 25, 2025, at 1:30 p.m.

Crain was charged with assault causing bodily harm to a female victim, unlawful confinement, and uttering threats following an incident on Dec. 10, 2022, near Florenceville-Bristol.

He pleaded guilty to the lesser included offence of common assault and guilty to uttering threats. The crown withdrew the confinement charge.

Not guilty on sex charge

Matthew Eric Hughes, 28, of Perth-Andover, appeared in provincial court on Dec. 18 for a verdict following his trial on a sex charge laid by RCMP. Judge Sebastian Michaud found him not guilty.

RCMP charged Hughes with touching a female minor for a sexual purpose and invitation to touching for a sexual purpose, stemming from alleged incidents between Aug. 31, 2014, and Jan. 1, 2017, near Perth-Andover. He pleaded not guilty. The second charge was withdrawn at his court appearance on Oct. 2.

Agreed to peace bond

Kevin Coutts, 65, of Lower Kintore, appeared for trial in provincial court on Dec. 20 on two charges laid by RCMP. He agreed to sign a 12-month peace bond, and the trial did not proceed.

Coutts was charged with failing to appear in court and assault involving a female victim, stemming from an incident on June 10, 2023, at Kintore. The peace bond will result in the assault charge being withdrawn. The crown also withdrew the charge of failing to appear.

Held in custody for sentencing

Megan Elizabeth Lewis, 30, of no fixed address, appeared in provincial court in custody via teleconference on Dec. 20 after being arrested on a warrant for failing to appear for sentencing. She was remanded until Dec. 23 at 1:30 p.m.

Lewis appeared in provincial court on June 12 and changed her plea to guilty on five charges laid by Woodstock Police. She was released on an undertaking until her sentencing and then failed to appear for several subsequent appearances.

Lewis was charged with unlawful entry at a dwelling house, assaulting another woman, committing mischief causing property damage to a door, two counts of assaulting a police officer, and breach of probation for an incident on Dec. 28, 2023, in Woodstock. The crown withdrew the charge of unlawful entry.

Lewis appeared in provincial court in custody by video on May 21 for a bail hearing. She was released with conditions to a rehab facility in Shediac but left the facility in breach of her release order. On June 12, she told the court she did not want to go back.

Lewis spent several months in custody before being sent to rehab. The court heard a joint recommendation of time served and probation was to be made at her sentencing hearing by both the crown and defence, but she failed to appear.

Returning for plea

Deven Lennon, 31, of Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation), will appear in provincial court on Jan. 28, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. for plea on several charges laid by RCMP.

Lennon was charged with assault with a weapon (keys) and assault involving a female victim on Oct. 20 at Neqotkuk, assaulting a female, assault with a weapon (a bottle), and uttering threats on Nov. 5 at Neqotkuk, and assaulting a female on Oct. 2 at Neqotkuk. He made his first court appearance on Dec. 17, when the matter was adjourned to the new date.

Released on an undertaking

Paul Allingham, 48, of Enterprise in Victoria County, will appear in provincial court on Jan. 14, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. to answer an assault charge.

Allingham was charged with assaulting another man in connection with an incident on Sept. 17 near Plaster Rock. He made his first court appearance on Dec. 17, when the matter was adjourned for plea to the new date. He was released on an undertaking until that time.

Trafficking charge laid

Timothy Thibodeau, 42, of Glassville, will appear in provincial court on Dec. 24 at 9:30 a.m. for plea on three charges laid by RCMP. He was scheduled for plea on Dec. 17 when the matter was adjourned to the new date.

Thibodeau was charged with possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking, uttering threats on Sept. 4, 2023, at Hartland, and failing to appear in court on Oct. 24.  He appeared in court in custody on Nov. 4. He was released with conditions with an order to report to the police weekly.

Trial date scheduled

Thomas Ross Corey, 38, of Lansdowne, will appear for trial in provincial court on Nov. 10, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. after pleading not guilty to impaired driving.

Woodstock Police charged Corey following an incident on May 20 in Woodstock. He entered his not-guilty plea at a court appearance on Nov. 26. He returned to court on Dec. 20 to set a trial date.

Nabbed for impaired

Carvell Weston, 57, of Woodstock, will appear in provincial court on Dec. 24 at 9:30 a.m. to answer an impaired driving charge.

Woodstock Police charged Weston in connection with an incident on June 11 in Woodstock. He made his first court appearance on Nov. 26, when the matter was adjourned for plea to the new date.

Charged with uttering threats

Brandon Lee Kinney, 25, of Woodstock, will appear in provincial court on Dec. 24 at 9:30 a.m. to face a threat charge.

Woodstock Police charged Kinney with uttering threats stemming from an incident on July 19 in Woodstock. He made his first court appearance on Nov. 26, when the matter was adjourned for plea to the new date.

Woodstock woman to enter plea

Lisa Barrett, 49, of Woodstock, will appear in provincial court on Dec. 24 at 9:30 a.m. for plea on two charges laid by RCMP.

Barrett was charged with uttering threats and obstructing the course of justice for an incident on Aug. 24 at Wicklow. She appeared in court on Nov. 27 and was released on an undertaking until her next court appearance.

Incident in Debec

Delta Foster, 27, of Woodstock, will appear in provincial court on Dec. 24 at 9:30 a.m. for plea on three charges laid by RCMP.

Foster was charged with two counts of uttering threats and mischief causing property damage to a TV concerning an incident in Debec on Aug. 5. She made her first court appearance on Nov. 27 when the matter was adjourned to the new date.

Peace bond for Hayes

Edward Hayes Jr., 29, of Benton, appeared for trial in provincial court in custody by video on Dec. 19 on two charges laid by RCMP. He agreed to sign a 12-month peace bond, and the trial did not proceed.

Hayes was charged with assault involving a female and breach of probation on June 17 at a residence in Centreville. The peace bond will result in the charges being withdrawn.

Hayes also appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Nov. 29 and pleaded guilty to two other charges. His sentencing date was set for Jan. 13, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. Hayes pleaded guilty to flight from police and breach of probation.

He also appeared in custody by video on Oct. 31 and pleaded not guilty to several other charges laid by RCMP. His trial dates were set for Jan. 13, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. and Jan. 30 and Feb. 6, 2025, at 9:30 a.m.

Hayes was denied bail on Aug. 29. He was charged with refusing a breathalyzer demand, resisting arrest, assaulting two police officers, dangerous driving causing bodily harm, assault on a female victim, mischief causing property damage to a vehicle, and driving while prohibited in connection with an incident on Aug. 27 at Centreville.

Trial adjourned to March

Jerry Inman, 68, of Kincardine, appeared in provincial court on Dec. 19 to continue his trial on a firearm charge laid by the RCMP. The trial was adjourned until March 7 and March 28, 2025, at 1:30 p.m.

Inman was charged with intentionally discharging a firearm into or at a place, knowing another person was present there in connection with an incident on April 27, 2023, in Kincardine. He pleaded not guilt,y and his trial commenced on Dec. 13.

Trial for aggravated assault

Tusha Mae Sawyer, 46, of Carlingford, will appear in provincial court on Feb. 21, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. to continue her trial on two charges laid by RCMP.

Sawyer was charged with aggravated assault against another woman and indictable breach of probation in connection with an incident on July 29, 2023, at Gladwyn. The trial began on Dec. 13 with crown witnesses testifying about an alleged violent altercation between the two women.

Sentencing set on several charges

Joshua Sisson, 37, of Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation), will appear in provincial court in custody for sentencing on Dec. 23 at 9:30 a.m. after changing his plea to guilty on several charges.

Sisson appeared in court in custody by video for a bail hearing on Nov. 14 and was remanded to jail. RCMP charged him with two counts of uttering threats for an incident on Nov. 11 at Neqotkuk. He was also charged with flight from police on Sept. 24.

He changed his plea to guilty on one threat charge and the flight charge on Dec. 17 and told the court he was planning to enter a rehab facility.

Sisson also pleaded guilty to assault with a weapon (a bottle) involving a female victim, assault, and one count of uttering threats in connection with an incident on April 8 at Neqotkuk.  He was ordered to have no contact with the complainant.

He is awaiting plea on Dec. 23 at 9:30 a.m. on two new charges of attempted break and enter and mischief causing property damage to a shed on Sept. 24 at Neqotkuk.

Sentencing scheduled for Davenport

Timothy Grant Davenport, 46, of no fixed address, was scheduled to appear in provincial court in custody by video on Dec. 20 for sentencing after changing his plea to guilty on six charges laid by RCMP. Judge Karen Lee was expected to reserve her decision on sentence to a later date.

Davenport was charged by RCMP with theft of a gun and ammunition, committing mischief by breaking a window, resisting arrest, possession of a prohibited weapon (a loaded sawed-off shotgun), reckless discharge of a firearm, pointing a firearm at another man, possession of a firearm without a licence, possession of ammunition while prohibited, and possession of a firearm while prohibited, in connection with an incident on Nov. 26, 2023, near Lakeville.

The crown withdrew three charges, and one firearm charge was reduced to a lesser included offence.

Davenport appeared in court for a bail hearing on Nov. 29, 2023, and was remanded to jail. He also awaits sentencing for another offence after pleading guilty to a fraud charge.

Trial on two charges

Gabriel John Tomah, 21, of Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation), appeared in provincial court on Dec. 18 for his trial on two charges laid by RCMP.

Tomah was charged with assault involving a female victim and uttering threats in connection with an incident on Oct. 1, 2023, at Neqotkuk. He pleaded not guilty. Testimony continued throughout the day on Oct. 18.

Bail hearing adjourned

Brittany Priscilla King, 27, of Woodstock, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Dec. 19 for a bail hearing. The bail hearing was adjourned until Dec. 23 at 1:30 p.m. at the request of her defence counsel.

Woodstock Police charged King with breach of a release order by violating electronic monitoring between Dec. 7 and Dec. 9 in Woodstock. She is also awaiting trial on other separate matters.

Woodstock Police charged King with assault with a weapon (a knife), assault causing bodily harm to a male victim, theft, and unlawful entry at a dwelling house concerning an incident on Nov. 5, 2023, in Woodstock. She pleaded not guilty, and her trial dates were rescheduled for April 14 and April 24, 2025, at 9:30 a.m.

She was also charged with possession of a stolen vehicle, dangerous driving, committing mischief causing property damage and assault using a vehicle following an incident on Sept. 17, 2023, in Woodstock. She pleaded not guilty, and her trial was adjourned until May 8, 2025.

King was also charged with possessing a stolen vehicle on Nov. 22, 2022, and failing to attend court on Feb. 21, 2023. She pleaded not guilty and a trial date was set for April 14, 2025, at 9:30 a.m.

Trial on Monday

Curtis Brent Hatheway, 43, of Woodstock, will appear in provincial court in custody on Monday for the start of his trial on charges laid by Woodstock Police. His trial dates were rescheduled for Dec. 23 at 9:30 a.m. and Jan. 20, 2025, at 9:30 a.m.

Hatheway appeared in custody by video on Nov. 21 for a bail hearing. He waived his bail and was remanded to jail. He was arrested on a warrant.

Hatheway pleaded not guilty to multiple charges including two counts of breach of probation and two counts of breaching a peace bond between June 30 and July 8 and on Sept. 13 in Woodstock, breach of an undertaking, breach of probation, breach of a peace bond and criminal harassment between Sept. 14 and Sept.16 in Woodstock. The charges relate to a no-contact order involving a female complainant. He has a prior criminal record.

He was also charged with breach of probation and breach of a peace bond for incidents between May 24 and Sept. 13 in Woodstock. He pleaded not guilty at a court appearance on Dec. 12. His trial date was set for Dec. 23 at 9:30 a.m.

Released on an undertaking

Derek Oliver, 34, of no fixed address, will appear in provincial court on Dec. 23 at 9:30 a.m. for plea on one charge laid by RCMP.

Oliver was charged with breaking and entering into a garage in Hartland on Aug. 9. He was released on an undertaking and ordered to have no contact with the complainant. He made his first court appearance on Nov. 27 when the matter was adjourned to the new date.

Plea scheduled for Ontario man

Ryan James Dunford, 43, of London, Ontario, will appear in provincial court on Dec. 24 at 9:30 a.m. for plea on one charge laid by Woodstock Police.

Dunford was charged with mischief causing property damage to a vehicle on June 21 in Woodstock.  He was released on an undertaking and entered a rehab facility in Ontario.

The post Woodstock Provincial Court: Woodstock man arrested on warrant first appeared on River Valley Sun.

The holidays are a good time to turn away from devices and help children develop much needed social skills, such as communication, teamwork and problem solving, experts say.

Seasonal affective disorder can make you feel tired, anti-social and hopeless. Here are the signs to look for and some ways to fight it.

New Brunswick hunters took 11,780 deer this fall, a 31 per cent increase since last year.

Woodstock fire chief and Regional Fire Marshal visit school to present backpack of special gifts

With a shy and bewildered smile, Townsview School kindergartener Hafizullah Ibn Jibnel Ona wore his plastic fireman’s helmet and held his stuffed Sparky the Fire Dog as he accepted his Fire Prevention Poster prize from some special guests to his classroom on Tuesday, Dec. 17. 

Regional Fire Marshal Eric Guerette, Woodstock Fire Chief Harold McLellan and the chief’s dog Ember visited teacher Shannon Despres’s kindergarten class to deliver a backpack and contents to the five-year-old winner, one of 27 across New Brunswick. 

Children throughout New Brunswick created posters during Fire Safety Week in October. 

The backpack included a stuffed Sparky toy and a plastic fireman helmet, as well as a household fire extinguisher, a smoke alarm, and an assortment of children’s items. 

Ember, the chief’s nine-year-old child-friendly Dalmatian, was “Haffy” and his classmates’ favourite visitor. Ember made several trips around the classroom to take in the young students’ head rubs. 

Guerette quizzed the children on fire safety. Many of them already knew the purpose of the fire extinguisher and smoke alarm, including that they needed a working battery. 

Guerette explained the annual Fire Safety Week and the Fire Prevention Poster Contest encourage schools and their young students to learn about the dangers of fire while sharing in the fun. 

The post Townsview kindergarten student earns Fire Safety Poster Contest prize first appeared on River Valley Sun.

A man who attacked a Saint John police officer with a knife last winter has been sentenced to 10 and a half years in prison.

Eastern Charlotte Mayor John Craig sits down with CHCO’s Nathalie Sturgeon to talk about the results of the Municipality’s recent financial audit, the status of the Magaguadavic River #2 Bridge in St. George and the water supply system in Blacks Harbour, and more on an all-new December 2024 edition of Your Town Matters.

By David Bizzo, Community Contribution

At the opening exhibition Deck the Walls – Reflection of Time, I spoke with several attendees who were adding to their collections of works by certain artists featured on the gallery walls. Local artists are decking out the gallery walls of Sunbury Shores in St. Andrews, New Brunswick, throughout the month of December.

The exhibition presents a diverse menagerie of artwork by both emerging and established artists. The range is remarkable, spanning assemblages, felt sculptures, quilting, South Asian fabrics, ceramics, photography, and prints. Etchings and linocuts sit alongside traditional watercolours, oils, and acrylics, while more unconventional mediums, such as wrought iron, jewellery in various styles, and even an AI-generated interactive short video by David Norris, showcase the breadth of creativity on display. For a small resort town, this level of artistic diversity is truly eye-opening.

With prices modestly set—most under the sought-after $500 limit—this is an accessible entry point for both seasoned art collectors and first-time buyers. Importantly, 35 per cent of each sale supports the operation of this first-class community art gallery and its workshops, meaning that purchases benefit not only the artists but also the facility itself.

Among the many works, a needle-felted whale mounted on driftwood by D. Lynne caught my attention, sparking a conversation with an older woman who felt compelled to touch the piece. I encouraged her to do so, believing that art is not just visual but also tactile.

Colour also played a strong role in this exhibition. Susan Greenbank’s trio of small acrylic paintings on board, entitled Winter Sunrise, radiate warmth, while Lyn Burge’s organic alcohol ink works on yupo paper evoke summer gardens bursting with reeds and vibrant explosions of colour.

Ted Michener, a classic visual expressionist and caricaturist, introduces a nautical theme through his miniature oil paintings. Meanwhile, my own abstract landscapes, inspired by the Van Horne Trail and Ministers Island, are showcased in the back gallery alongside Anthony Welch’s intricate etchings and haunting prints. One standout piece in this space is Helen Elizabeth’s linocut Night at Kerrs Lake, which exudes a foreboding yet magnetic allure.

Another highlight is Wayne Eddy’s hand-forged ironwork, exemplified by his Fireset—a practical and beautifully crafted set of fireplace tools.

Robyn Kern’s oil-on-panel depictions of farm animals are another standout. Her series of three small images demonstrates brilliant execution, particularly in the striking black-and-white portrait of a horse’s head.

Sherry Campeau adds a 3D element to the show with her painted oar, Water Dragon, while Sheri Larsen’s mixed-media piece Raven with Skull in the Spooky Forest makes a stark yet powerful statement of simplicity and ingenuity.

Overall, Deck the Walls – Reflection of Time serves as a fitting prelude to the gallery’s fresh vision for 2025. Whether you’re an art collector or simply an admirer, this exhibition is an invitation to support local artists and celebrate their work. Let’s make an effort to engage with our vibrant artistic community this holiday season—whether by purchasing, admiring, or spreading the word.

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A Burton man who didn’t appear in court earlier month as scheduled to answer to a sexual-assault charge was in court Friday, and he faces a new count related to his no-show.

A judge issued an arrest warrant Dec. 4 for Isaiah Joseph Ernest Bonnar, 23, of Irene Street in Burton, when he didn’t appear as he’d been directed to do by the RCMP.

He had been scheduled to make his first court appearance that day Aug. 22 charges of indictable sexual assault and breach of probation, alleged to have occurred in Upper Gagetown.

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A class action lawsuit alleging women were improperly given a labour-inducing drug by a nurse in Moncton has been certified by New Brunswick's top court.

It’s official, the Acadie-Bathurst Titan are relocating from their New Brunswick home to St. John’s.

New Brunswick Liberal MP Wayne Long, who has been outspoken in calling for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to step down, is confident the list of names calling for Trudeau's resignation will grow. 'This is unstoppable,' he said.

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In the wake of tense police responses at Fredericton High School, the force is now confirming that officers responded to a weapons-related incident and subsequent threat at Leo Hayes High School.

Three Fredericton Police Force cruisers were parked outside Leo Hayes High School (LHHS) on Monday morning as students arrived at school. No emergency lights or sirens were activated, and students and staff weren’t impeded from entering the facility.

In an email to parents and guardians of students that same morning, principal Kendra Frizzell said officers were on hand to deal with something that arose at the school over the weekend.

“You may have noticed at dropoff this morning that we have a police presence,” she wrote.

“This is a proactive measure in response to some concerns that happened in the community over the weekend. School is business as usual.”

The Fredericton Independent inquired with the police force about the incident this week, and in a news release issued Friday, the force revealed there was a weapons-related incident at the northside school as well as a subsequent threat to a specific student.

“At approximately 12 p.m. [Friday, Dec. 13], four youth armed with knives in a stolen vehicle attempted to access LHHS. The suspects were unable to enter due to secured doors and fled prior to police arrival,” the release said.

“Police arrived within minutes and secured the school perimeter. Investigation revealed the youth were targeting one specific individual.”

The force reported that three suspects were identified, with one left outstanding.

And on Monday, the release said, there was another incident involving online threats.

“At approximately 7:40 a.m. [Monday], a LHHS student received threatening messages via social media targeting them and the school community,” it said.

“Investigation revealed the message's author was involved in the Dec. 13 incident.”

Officers carried out “a targeted operation” and arrested three 17-year-old boys, who have since been charged with multiple alleged offences.

All three suspects are facing counts of possession of a weapon, attempted assault with a weapon and possession of stolen property.

The first teen is also accused of uttering threats and breaching a probation order.

The second faces additional counts of breaching a police undertaking and breaching a judicial release order.

Two of the suspects were remanded after brief court appearances this week, the release said, while the other was released on conditions with a promise to appear in court at a later date.

The identities of all underage defendants is protected by the provisions of the Youth Criminal Justice Act.

The pair who was remanded had bail hearings scheduled in Fredericton youth court Thursday. The first was denied release following his bail hearing, while the other asked for his hearing to be postponed to Monday.

Spate of incidents at high schools

The Leo Hayes police responses come on the heels of three incidents of concern at Fredericton High School on the city’s south side in recent weeks.

Police responded to FHS on Nov. 28 after receiving a report of a student with a weapon.

Officers arrested a 14-year-old male student, from whom they seized a BB gun. That boy was released on conditions and is slated to appear in court at a later date. It’s expected he’ll face charges of possessing a weapon for a purpose dangerous to the public peace and carrying a concealed weapon.

Police made a similarly quick response to FHS the afternoon of Dec. 6 after a student received a text message from an unknown number claiming a potential shooter was in the school.

Again, a lockdown was imposed, but the threat proved to be unfounded.

“Upon investigation, the text message was determined to be of foreign origin and not directed specifically to FHS,” Friday’s news release said.

Six days later, the police force was back at FHS for what proved to be another unfounded weapons threat.

“An FHS student overheard a conversation between students indicating one was in possession of a firearm at school,” the release said.

“The student informed FHS administration, prompting a police response. Upon investigation, no threat was found to be present.”

The police force and Anglophone School District West officials acknowledged this recent series of events at the capital’s two largest schools have prompted concerns in the community.

Deputy police chief Brian Ford said the force has a responsibility to take such incidents seriously, but it also wants to provide a safe community where people can live their lives without fear.

"Ensuring the safety of students and school staff is our highest priority," he said in the release.

"As a law-enforcement entity, it is our duty to be vigilant and proactive in safeguarding our schools from any threat, in partnership with educators, parents, and the community, to create an environment where students can learn and grow without fear."

District Supt. David McTimoney said schools see student safety as a duty it performs in partnership with police.

"Maintaining a safe and secure learning environment is a shared responsibility, and our partnership with the Fredericton Police Force is absolutely critical in achieving that goal,” he said in the release.

“Together, we work to proactively address potential threats, respond to emergencies swiftly, and provide a sense of security for both students and staff."

McTimoney acknowledged such security incidents can have detrimental effects on students, teachers and other school staff members as well.

“[New Brunswick Teacher Association] teacher counsellors and the Employee Assistance Program are available to support staff who may be impacted by these recent incidents, while school counsellors remain available to assist students,” he said.

The police force and the district urged students, staff and others in the community to report any suspicious or concerning behaviour to school administration or law enforcement.

“The message remains clear: see something, say something -- always,” the release said.

Don MacPherson can be contacted at [email protected].

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Two capital-region residents landed in court recently, facing charges after authorities alleged they illegally tried to get into the pot-selling business.

Floyd Donald MacIntosh, 46, of Mazerolle Settlement Road in Mazerolle Settlement, and Julie Dawn Hellmeister, 41, of Barton Crescent in Fredericton, were both scheduled to make their first appearances in Fredericton provincial court Thursday on charges under the Cannabis Act.

Neither was present Thursday, but Fredericton defence lawyer Ron Morris appeared on both defendants’ behalf.

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A Wirral man facing an indictable sexual-assault charge saw his case set over this week so he can seek legal counsel and get information about the allegations against him.

Luke Cote, 42, of Sandbrook Road in Wirral, about 60 kilometres southeast of Fredericton, made his initial appearance in Fredericton provincial court to answer to a serious charge.

The RCMP previously laid an information against him, alleging he committed a sexual assault in Durham Bridge on July 29.

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A Bloomfield man accused of possessing cannabis and magic mushrooms for trafficking purposes will stand trial on those allegations next summer.

Benjamin Troy Dana Mundell, 27, of Bloomfield Ridge Road, about 30 kilometres southwest of Sussex, appeared in Fredericton provincial court earlier this month to answer to drug charges.

He elected to be tried in provincial court and pleaded not guilty to counts of possessing cannabis for the purpose of selling it and distributing it, contrary to the Cannabis Act, possessing psilocybin (magic mushrooms) for the purpose of trafficking; and breaching a probation order.

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Growing up biracial rural New Brunswick, Felicity Brayley says she witnessed racial discrimination against her Black mother, which motivated her dedication to teaching Black history.

Province approves the rural community’s 2025 budget, which increases spending while holding the line of property tax rates

A 10.4 per cent growth in its tax base helped the Nackawic-Millville Rural Community meet its growing expenses without raising property owners’ tax rates. 

“Between new construction and increased property assessments by the provincial government, our tax base grew over the past year from almost $336 million to almost $371 million,” explained Mayor Tim Fox. 

He said the tax rates would remain unchanged in all wards for 2025. 

At a special meeting on Dec. 10, the Nackawic-Millville Council passed the balanced $3.84 million operating budget and $441,000 utility budget. 

During the regular council session on Dec. 16, CAO Kathryn Clark told the council the budget received provincial approval earlier that day. 

The increased base contributed to a $247,769 jump in revenues, including a combined increase of eight per cent in the municipal warrant and unconditional grant, 

The budget also reflected a nine per cent increase in Department of Parks and Recreation revenue, primarily due to increased area usage and a successful arena advertising campaign. 

The increased revenue helped allay rising expenses in several departments, including a 3.5 per cent jump in policing costs as mandated by the N.B. Department of Public Safety. 

Fire costs will rise by 15 per cent over the rural community’s three fire stations. 

Public works spending will jump by six per cent, with eight per cent more going to recreation and cultural services. 

Staff and council found savings in some departments, including a two per cent decrease in general government operations. 

It will also see a two per cent net reduction in environmental health services, including adding a municipality-owned garbage truck to collect garbage in all wards outside Ward 3, the former town of Nackawic. 

Mayor Fox said the town’s public works staff will operate the truck to collect regular garbage in the five outside wards, starting in January. He said the change from contracting the service could save the municipality up to $200,000 annually. 

He explained Ward 3 would remain under its current contract with FERO until it expires.

The budget saw fiscal services costs jump by 140 per cent, primarily because of budget reallocations and debt repayments owed on new assets and infrastructure.

The Nackawic-Millville utility budget calls for an average $45 per year increase in the flat rate fee for water and sewer services, which should deliver an approximately eight per cent increase in revenue. Council approved a six per cent increase in utility expenses, which included reserve allocations for future repair and replacement of its aging utility assets. 

Fox explained strategic spending on infrastructure upgrades helps reduce operation costs over time. He cited the purchase of the garbage truck as an example. 

“Our investment in garbage collection has prevented projected increases in garbage collection contract costs that could have represented an approximate five cent increase in municipal tax rates,” he said. 

Fox said Nackawic-Millville’s continuing growth will help the municipality to upgrade services without increasing the tax rate. He said the council is committed to sustainable economic and population growth. 

He added the town staff and council would share their future vision with residents when they unveil Nackawic-Millville’s municipal strategic plan early in 2025. 

The post Tax rate remains unchanged as Nackawic-Millville’s tax base grows substantially first appeared on River Valley Sun.

New facility for prison inmates in southeastern New Brunswick is expected to cost millions more than previously expected.

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The City of Fredericton will pay for a new community engagement unit with cash it saved through vacancies on its police force, and the retired officers hired will technically be private-sector employees.

The Fredericton Police Force (FPF) announced this week that a new community engagement unit (CEU) will be established by hiring retired members of the force to handle non-emergency policing functions.

The aim is to reduce the administrative demands on sworn, active-duty officers, it said.

“The CEU will consist of former FPF members who will handle non-critical tasks, such as taking statements for minor crimes, handling lost property and providing general public assistance,” the force said in a news release Tuesday.

But the initial announcement was silent on what the initiative would cost the city, how it would pay for it, how many employees will work in the unit and whether it would alter the total number of full policing positions on the force.

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A shellfish disposal facility in eastern New Brunswick that's been the subject of complaints and legal action over odour and noise has declared bankruptcy.

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The new Liberal government has fulfilled a key campaign promise two months after taking office, not only restoring a progressive policy on student gender identity but taking it further.

The province announced Thursday afternoon that Policy 713 - which focuses on sexual orientation and gender identity of students - has once again been revised to respect students’ preferred pronouns and names as part of discovering their gender identities.

Former premier Blaine Higgs and his Education minister, Bill Hogan, had changed Policy 713 during their time in power requiring parent consent for name changes and alternate pronouns for any student under the age of 16.

It proved to be a controversial and divisive move that played prominently in this fall’s provincial election campaign that saw Susan Holt and her Liberals win by a landslide.

Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Claire Johnson announced that the Liberal government was doing away with the changes made by Higgs’ Progressive Conservative government, fulfilling a Liberal campaign promise.

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Parental consent is encouraged but no longer required when a student of any age wants their chosen names and pronouns used informally at school, says the document, which takes effect Jan. 1, 2025.

A crowd gathered at Moncton's Victoria Park on Thursday to remember the more than 50 people who died in 2024 while experiencing homelessness and drug addiction.

Controversial changes in 2023

Teachers’ union responds

The Municipal District of St. Stephen has passed both its capital and utility budget. 

Council debated, over several committees of the whole meetings, the various priorities for the municipality, including road work, fleet vehicle replacement, and lift station replacement. 

Jeff Renaud, the chief administrative officer, presented the final budgets to the council on Dec. 19. The municipal tax base assessment base rose by 8.91 per cent, totalling about $62.45 million. 

He highlighted several key achievements this year, including a reduction in tax rates for both St. Stephen’s urban and rural areas, maintaining the 2024 stipends for the mayor and council, and restructuring administrative staff, which resulted in savings of $198,334.

It maintained its community grants at $50,000, which are expected to be given out in the new year. 

Funds were allocated for an independent community safety survey, the implementation of a new budget software, and a municipal re-branding survey. 

Another $65,281 was transferred to the General Capital reserves for future capital needs and $150,000 was allocated to support economic development. 

Roads and streets 

Several municipal roads are slated to get some much-needed repair work in 2025.

Fifteen municipal roads are on the list for rehabilitation or construction, totalling about $1 million. These streets were part of a study done by Dillon Consulting – which showed the town was facing a $17 million backlog of road construction projects. 

Renaud said the roads chosen for this year are based on PCI, which is a scientific-based system for determining the conditions of roads. 

“There is a scientific rationale behind why we chose the ones we did,” Renaud told the council at a previous committee of the whole meeting. 

The PCI score is set by observing the distress in the road,  such as cracking, scaling, rutting, and spalling. It rates from zero, the worst on the scale, to 100, which is the best. 

Both Belliveau Ave and McIntee Lane received a 10 on the PCI scale, with the highest being Thompson Ave – from Garden Street to Prince William Street – received a PCI of 69. 

Tax rate reduction

Renaud told the council it is reducing both tax rates by four per cent for the upcoming year. 

The council set the residential rate for citizens in St. Stephen at 1.5610 per $100 of assessment and rural St. Stephen at 0.5597 per $100 of assessment. 

A four per cent reduction for St. Stephen’s urban area is about seven cents, while the rural area saw about a two-cent decrease.

It held its non-residential multiplier at 1.6. 

Coun. Joyce Wright did voice concern about lowering the tax rate, fearing future volatility for ratepayers. 

“I think there is value in holding the rate steady, but that’s just my comment,” she said. “I know it’s a great budget and … I’m sure our citizens will be thrilled to get a reduction … but I’m skeptical it’s too good to be true for future years.”

There was also no change to the rates for water and sewer, but the municipality is looking at the rate structure to improve the economic viability.

Other major projects

The council did approve several other major projects this year. Renaud said three of those projects will be funded through long-term debt, another will be funded through general capital reserves.  

The municipality will also consider replacing several fleet vehicles and a backhoe. 

Renaud said there are five capital projects on the list for city facilities and parks next on the list for this year, but staff are only recommending four of them. 

The tennis court rehabilitation, the Milltown pool liner replacement, security camera upgrades, and Rotary Park upgrades.

The lift station will cost about $1.2 million but has been facing significant issues for the better part of the last decade. 

A lift station is like a pump that moves wastewater up from low-lying areas to keep the flow moving. 

Sean Morton, the deputy chief administrative officer, and the fire chief said there has been a significant amount of work done to ensure the lift station operates properly and doesn’t “spill its contents” out into the streets. 

The replacement, they said, is necessary to ensure the longevity of the lift station. The money is set to come from the Canada Community-Building Fund, formerly known as the federal gas tax fund.

Some debate over the surplus

Part of the funding for the roads and streets this year came from a surplus in the previous year. By legislation, municipalities are required to have balanced budgets, so that was carried over into the next year. 

Coun. Wade Greenlaw took issue with the fact that the money was originally slated for shared services. 

“The surplus that was transferred from the operation, the roughly $900,000 – the 842-thousand dollars – I just want people to be aware that a lot of that or some of that came from shared services,” Greenlaw said. “For transparency, I think, we’re taking money from shared services and we’re not using it for what it was intended for, we’re using it for something else.” 

He asked for there to be more transparency about that but also to use that money for what it was intended for. 

Renaud said there were plenty of line items that would be considered shared services, including park upgrades and the pool liner. 

“Just because it is going to capital, doesn’t mean it is going to non-shared services,” he said, agreeing to be more clear about how things are split up. “I took offense to the original wording of the comment, as opposed to the spirit, councillor.”

The new shelter in St. Stephen has officially opened, according to its operator Neighbourhood Works Inc.

It’s named the Lighthouse Lodge and can help up to 20 regular beds, with 10 overflow beds. The full capacity is 30 people.

Jim Stuart, the executive director, said each year has been challenging to get set up, but the new permanency of this shelter on Union Street will be a big step.

“All our local contractors such as carpentry, electrical, plumbing, and the like have been fantastic,” he said in an email to The Courier. “Could not do this without them. Getting things up to code and inspected is the most time-consuming.”

St. Stephen has been grappling with an increasing number of people experiencing homelessness. In December 2023, the municipality declared a state of emergency to try and force movement on securing a permanent shelter in the area.

The previous PC government did try to put one on Happy Valley Road but was unable to after significant pushback from the community. However, it did put funding toward NWI to fund a temporary out-of-the-cold shelter.

Stuart said he tries not to listen to the negative noise around the shelter, with people often expressing concerns about the shelter, its possible residents, and the location.

The new shelter has about 20 regular beds and 10 overflow beds. (Neighbourhood Works Inc.)

“NWI has put out our FAQs, we dropped them off at all our neighbours on Main, St. Croix, and George streets,” he said in the email. “It is difficult to correct false information like “bussing people in” as it perpetuates faster than the truth, people want to believe it. It is easier to accept than to accept that in a small community, we have this level of disparity. NWI will continue to advocate for these and other vulnerable people and do good work. Success is the key to change.”

Neighbourhood Works Inc. has done a lot of work to help those experiencing homelessness, but also addiction and mental health issues.

Stuart said there is always room for people to help.

“During this time of year, we are always in need of gloves, hats, men’s and ladies’ underwear, long johns, or lounge pants,” he said. “We will be reaching out to see if there may be some individuals that would like to come in and cook some meals.”

Everyone who wants to work or volunteer would need to be subject to a background check.

Stuart said when he hears stories about how Neighbourhood Works has helped them, he thinks of how his family and people have helped him.

“​​NWI is trying to pay it forward in our own little way,” he said.

Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc says Prime Minister Justin Trudeau listened carefully when some Liberal MPs directly expressed to him that he should resign and said he would reflect carefully on what he heard from them. LeBlanc mentioned Serge Cormier, René Arseneault and Jenica Atwin included in those who expressed their concerns with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Higgs government signed new contract, CUPE says the deal not being applied as promised, angering workers.