Mike O’Brien To Re-Offer for Fredericton City Council

Mike O’Brien, councillor for Ward 3 (Fulton Heights/North Devon) is pleased to announce he is reoffering in the May 14^th municipal election. First elected in 2001, O’Brien has served two terms as Deputy Mayor, two years as Development Services Chair, three years as Chair of the Finance Committee and five years (and currently) as Chair of the Affordable Housing Committee.

During his tenure as Finance Chair, Council approved the first municipal tax rate reduction in more than 25 years, and instituted a new long term financial plan that ensures sufficient funding to maintain roads, sidewalks and other crucial infrastructure.

“The past term has been exciting for Fredericton”, states O’Brien. “New recreational and convention facilities were opened, and developers are showing unprecedented levels of confidence in our City. Everyone has embraced the “Green Matters” program confirming Fredericton’s place as a national leader in environmental initiatives. The City is showing that world-class development can be attained in an environmentally responsible and fiscally sustainable manner.”

“The new facilities are extremely important to the city’s future, however, now that they are completed, it is time to refocus. We must keep our property tax rate as the lowest of all NB cities, while maintaining the high level of essential services”, says O’Brien. “Fredericton’s 7.8% debt ratio is also by far the lowest of the other cities, and we must be diligent that it stays so.”

O’Brien supports a four year freeze on new major city capital spending. He says that will provide for secure funding of Fredericton’s vibrant arts, culture and heritage sectors; to enhance Transit; and allow for Council to foster even more city wide green initiatives. He says it will also provide time to plan for a future center to support the social and activity needs of the City’s active senior community.

“On a personal note, I also wish to be a stronger voice for those needing shelter and assistance”, say O’Brien. “The need is great”.

O’Brien is a UNB graduate Mechanical Engineer. He worked several years in the private sector and is presently the Vice President of a provincial Crown Corporation. He is a charter inductee of the Fredericton Sports Wall of Fame, and was also inducted into the Baseball NB Hall of Fame. He has served on the River Valley Health Board of Directors, and was the initial Chair of the Park Street School PSSC.

He and wife Anne have four adult daughters.