One of the most important things we need to reverse is the lack of respect for Saint John. For decades, our city has given more than its fair share—especially in taxes—yet we have received far less in return. Despite paying the most in provincial taxes over the past 70 years, Saint John has the fewest university students and the least post-secondary investment in the Maritimes. Our tax dollars are either taken from us or spent elsewhere, and we have little control over how they are used.
This imbalance has real consequences. Saint John struggles with elevated levels of poverty, lower educational attainment, and fewer well-paying government jobs with benefits. We have lost opportunities that other cities have gained, and it is time to change that.
But Saint John is not without its strengths. We have the largest collection of Victorian homes and 19th-century buildings in North America—historic treasures that deserve restoration, fresh paint, and well-kept yards. We are home to the largest river system east of the Mississippi, the stunning Bay of Fundy, and a deep, ice-free harbour. These natural and architectural assets are unmatched, and they offer enormous potential for tourism, education, and economic development.
What has happened to Saint John is not irreversible. We have empty buildings, underused spaces, and a city core that could be revitalized with the right investment and vision. With proper support, we can restore our heritage, attract students and professionals, and create a vibrant, thriving community.
Respect for Saint John starts with recognizing its value—not just historically, but in its people, its potential, and its future. We must advocate for fair funding, better education, and meaningful opportunities. Saint John deserves to be seen, heard, and supported.
Let us work together to rebuild pride in our city and ensure that Saint John gets the respect—and the resources—it has long earned.
