March 7, 2024
FREDERICTON, NB – The Union of Municipalities of New Brunswick (UMNB) maintains that the province’s prosperity is tied to the success and well-being of its municipalities, shaping a shared future of growth and opportunity for all. In their recent budget recommendations to the provincial government, the UMNB made an urgent call for the development and implementation of a modern municipal fiscal framework to address the growing financial challenges faced by New Brunswick municipalities.
“Local governance reform in New Brunswick is propelling a transformation that demands immediate attention,” stated President Andrew Black, mayor of the Town of Tantramar. “The stability and prosperity of our local communities are intricately linked to the success of the province. The province can no longer afford to ignore the critical need for a modern fiscal framework.”
The province has increased the responsibilities of municipalities in a way that strains their financial resources, including escalating costs of infrastructure repair, public safety concerns, and homelessness. This comes at a time when cost of living challenges are being felt by every household, and every level of government. Yet, the province hasn’t delivered a promised modern municipal fiscal framework to support these new responsibilities.
Black raised concerns saying, “The lack of adequate funding will have serious impacts on our citizens, affecting essential services such as police presence, water supply, road and infrastructure maintenance, and housing affordability. Without sufficient financial support, the overall well-being of our communities, and in turn the province, is in jeopardy. As our communities go, so too does the province.”
The UMNB has called on the government to commence negotiations for the new municipal fiscal framework immediately, and re-commit to the implementation of the new system begins no later than January 1, 2025.
Municipalities are underscoring the significant financial strain they are facing and are calling for immediate, concrete measures to secure sustainability. Therefore, the UMNB is urging the government to act in good faith by promptly implementing the following recommendations as interim solutions, aimed at aiding communities in remaining financially viable during this transitional phase, as they await further reform.
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Recommendations |
Actions |
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Ensure the stability of municipalities by providing adequate funding. |
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Safeguard essential services and infrastructure against the increasing challenges posed by climate change. |
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Foster affordable housing opportunities to create inclusive communities and improve economic stability. |
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About the UMNB:
UMNB is a bilingual association of 56 municipalities of all sizes and linguistic backgrounds. Together, our members represent almost 70% of the NB population.
Media Contact:
UMNB
Vanessa Pettersson
506 – 444 – 2285