SAINT JOHN, N.B.- Mayor Mel Norton has given his thoughts on the state of Saint John.  

The mayor of Saint John gave the first annual State of the City address last night at the Trade and  Convention Centre to members of the Board of Trade.

The Mayor in his address told those gathered that Saint John’ers are true fighters. “We know how to face adversity and win every time. If we think back to what this place and the attitude it had in 1985-1986, that time frame…this place had an attitude that it was unstoppable and everybody knew it”.

Norton also touched on the pension issue. “The goal of your council has been to find an opportunity that will be sustainable and affordable. Sustainable for those who are beneficiaries of the plan and affordable for the taxpayers of this community. We cannot have pension cheques bouncing and we cannot afford the kind of pension payments that we have been making”.

Norton’s speech was well received by local businessman Tom Creamer who called Norton’s speech amazing. “I have never heard anyone speak so compassionately and concisely about the state of this city”

Councillor Shirley McAlary was also impressed. “I think he was honest, he was direct, and I think he kept a very upbeat, positive attitude throughout his speech”.

Deputy Mayor Shelly Rinehart is expected to outline the city’s priorities in a speech on Thursday.