Your mayor just said what about harassment?

Good morning from the Fundy shore — the tide's turning, and so is New Brunswick. Let's get into it.

I'll tell you what, this one really got me. We're heading into municipal elections soon, and you hear all sorts of things, right? But to hear Mayor Andrew Black of Tantramar – that's down near Sackville, not too far from the border, a lovely little town – say he's stepping down from the top job because of *harassment* and *bullying*? That's not just a little anecdote from 'away.' That's a real problem. He's still running for councillor, which tells you he still cares, but it's a stark reminder that public service, even in our smaller communities, isn't always the friendly, neighbourly affair we like to think it is.

### What This Means for Saint John

Think about it this way: if a mayor in a town like Tantramar is facing that kind of heat, what's it like for councillors and mayors right here in Saint John? We've got our own robust debates, sure, and sometimes they get pretty passionate, especially when it comes to things like the future of the uptown or even just parking on King Street. But you don't expect the people who volunteer to serve our city to be driven out of their roles because of personal attacks.

* This could make good people think twice about running for office, which is a real shame for our city.

* It highlights a concerning trend where public officials face undue pressure and hostility.

* It forces us to ask what kind of civic environment we're fostering here in Saint John.

We want people to step up and make our city better, right? From figuring out the best way to handle the tourist crush at the Reversing Falls Skywalk to keeping our beautiful City Market vibrant, we need good, dedicated folks. If the folks in power are getting bullied, it's not just their problem, it's *our* problem as a community. It makes you wonder about the tone of conversations, not just in council chambers, but in the comment sections online and even down at the local Tim's. This isn't just about Tantramar; it's a question for every community in New Brunswick, including right here overlooking the harbour.

Caleb Duguay-Firth, MiTL Sports Desk, Saint John.

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