They say no news is good news, but what about banning negative news for four months?
Saint John deputy mayor Shirley McAlary made the suggestion during a recent growth committee meeting as members were discussing the city’s growth priorities for 2019.
McAlary said there needs to be more positivity in Saint John, which has faced its fair share of challenges in recent years.
The idea prompted a discussion among committee members about the perception of the city.
Coun. Blake Armstrong said the city has never promoted the good things which are happening and suggested staff look into a marketing program.
Armstrong said there are no doubt some tough times in Saint John but the city can only go up from here.
Coun. John MacKenzie agreed and said the city cannot expect someone else to tell their story for them.
Mayor Don Darling says telling the city’s story is critical but they also need to tackle the barriers they have in order to move to another level.
City staff did propose some growth priorities for 2019, which include a discussion on tourism investment since the five-year contract with Discover Saint John will soon expire.
Other priorities include implementing the central peninsula neighbourhood plan and continuing to focus on vacant and dangerous buildings.
Story by Brad Perry
Twitter: @BradMPerry
Email: perry.brad@radioabl.ca
(Photo: Brad Perry/Acadia News)
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