Saint John Common Council (File Image)

It was an emotional conclusion to a brief meeting of Common Council last night – the final meeting of the current Council before a newly elected Council is sworn in early next month. Councillors took time to thank their council colleagues and City staff for what has been an unprecedented term of office marked by floods – the COVID pandemic – a year extension of their term – and a cyber attack that crippled the municipal I-T network.

One of the more emotional statements came from Councillor Blake Armstrong – who is known for his usually no nonsense approach when he speaks – struggled at times with his voice cracking – and – at one point declaring “I’m a wimp!” Watch highlights of his comments below.

Councillor Blake Armstrong

Mayor Don Darling wrapped up the members comments also struggling with his emotions. Watch highlights of his comments below.

Mayor Don Darling
Deputy Mayor Shirley McAlary (City of Saint John Image)

Deputy Mayor Shirley McAlary was singled out for her long service on Common Council serving as a Councillor – Mayor – and Deputy Mayor over a 21 year period. She announced in March she would not seek re-election saying “after 21 years in public life “it’s time.” To the surprise of many – McAlary’s chair at the Council Horse Shoe was empty last night. Mayor Don Darling told Council that McAlary had indicated to him this would be an emotional evening for her.