Miramichi River Valley Loses Local Council, Joins Other N.B. Communities
The Miramichi River Valley has recently lost its local council, resulting in the appointment of unelected supervisors. This change affects the municipalities of Blackville, Renous, and Sunny Corner, comprising the amalgamated community.
Loss of Local Governance in Miramichi River Valley
On Thursday morning, the Local Governance Commission of New Brunswick issued a statement confirming that the council was dissolved due to a lack of quorum caused by multiple resignations. As a result, local governance has come to a standstill.
Background on the Amalgamated Communities
The Miramichi River Valley is one of three municipalities currently under supervision, alongside Sunbury-York South and Strait Shores. All three are newly amalgamated communities formed in 2023.
- Sunbury-York South: A council member was replaced following a mayoral resignation due to a code of conduct violation.
- Strait Shores: The council faced turmoil due to disagreements regarding transparency efforts led by a new councillor.
Commission Recommendations and Future Training
This September, the Local Governance Commission suggested mandatory training for all New Brunswick councillors. However, action on this recommendation will not occur until after the upcoming elections in May 2026, as stated by Local Government Minister Aaron Kennedy.
Council Changes and Resignations
The Miramichi River Valley has seen significant turnover among its councillors this year. Key changes include:
- Ray Croft and Paula Hare were elected after a May byelection.
- Deputy mayor Morgan Vickers resigned in July, leading to Amanda Brennan stepping into the role.
Notably, a council meeting scheduled for November 4 was cancelled due to the lack of quorum, with an agenda that included conflict-of-interest complaints. The municipality’s website has since removed information regarding serving councillors.
Appointment of Supervisor
The province has appointed Brenda Knight as the supervisor for Miramichi River Valley. Knight brings extensive experience, having previously worked in various municipal governments and held significant roles within the Local Government Department.
Her appointment will remain in effect until the municipal elections in May 2026. Knight also conducts training for local government officials at the Université de Moncton.
Political Context
In October, Kevin Russell, former mayor of the Miramichi River Valley, won a byelection for the riding that encompasses the community. His transition to provincial politics marks a significant shift in local governance.
The changes in Miramichi River Valley reflect broader challenges faced by newly amalgamated communities in New Brunswick, raising questions about governance and the support for local officials.
