City of Saint John updates Council procedures to improve clarity and efficiency

The City of Saint John has given first and second reading to an updated Procedural By-law for Common Council. The revised by-law consolidates amendments made since 2021 and aligns with current legislative requirements under the Local Governance Act.

The update also reflects Council direction on the appointment of the Deputy Mayor and includes revisions to meeting procedures in advance of the upcoming municipal election.

Updates to the public hearing process are intended to improve clarity, consistency, and the overall experience for participants. These changes reflect a more modern approach and are consistent with practices used in municipalities of similar sizes.

Residents who wish to speak at a public hearing must now:
•   Register in advance of the public hearing, either by contacting the City Clerk ahead of time or in person on the second floor of City Hall within the first 30 minutes before the Council meeting begins; and
•   Submit any documents or materials they wish Council to consider by 4:00 p.m. on the Wednesday before the public hearing.

These changes give Council members time to review submissions in advance and help meetings run more efficiently. Registered speakers will continue to have an opportunity to address Council, with time allocated for questions from Council members following each presentation. Time allotted for speakers, including questions from Council, will remain as 10 minutes.

These updates are intended to support a more structured and consistent process, while ensuring all registered speakers have an opportunity to be heard.

The revised Procedural By-law will take effect following third reading, currently scheduled for April 20, 2026, and will guide Council meetings and public hearings moving forward.

Agendas and supporting materials for Council meetings will continue to be available on the City’s website in advance of each meeting. Council meetings remain open to the public, except in limited circumstances as permitted by legislation, and continue to be guided by procedures that support respectful and orderly participation. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and take part in Council meetings as part of shaping the future of Saint John.

For more details on the Procedural By-law for Common Council, click here.
To contact the City Clerk’s Office, call (506) 658-4455 or email [email protected]