If you live in Saint John, you have a new team representing your interests at City Hall. Family, friends, and residents gathered on Monday, June 1, to watch the new Common Council take their oaths before their first official meeting.

Image via City of Saint John

During the inaugural meeting, Mayor Donna Noade Reardon brought forward a motion to suspend the procedural bylaw. The council unanimously supported this move to split the Deputy Mayor duties across the current term.

John MacKenzie will serve as Deputy Mayor for the first two years, covering 2026 through 2028. Gary Sullivan takes over the role for the final two years, from 2028 through 2030.

The Deputy Mayor plays a crucial role in city governance. They support the work of the council, fulfill the duties of the Mayor when required, preside over meetings in her absence, and represent the City of Saint John at official functions.

A Look at Your New Common Council

The newly sworn in City of Saint John Common Council includes:

• Mayor Donna Noade Reardon
• Deputy Mayor John MacKenzie, Ward 2
• Deputy Mayor Gary Sullivan, Councillor at Large
• Councillor at Large Gina Hooley
• Councillor Greg Norton, Ward 1
• Councillor Sherri Colwell McCavour, Ward 1
• Councillor Brian Wyatt, Ward 2
• Councillor Eric Savoie, Ward 3
• Councillor Ryan Moore, Ward 3
• Councillor Paul Dempsey, Ward 4
• Councillor David Merrithew, Ward 4

Leaders Share Their Vision

Mayor Donna Noade Reardon congratulated MacKenzie and Sullivan on their appointments and thanked them for their ongoing commitment to public service. She noted the new council looks forward to working together to advance city priorities and build momentum for Saint John.

MacKenzie called it an honor to continue serving as Deputy Mayor. He expressed his eagerness to work alongside a strong team focused on serving residents and supporting a prosperous future for the city.

Sullivan brings 14 years of council experience to the table and said he feels proud to add Deputy Mayor to his list of roles starting in 2028. He plans to continue working hard to make Saint John the best city possible.

For more details, you can read the official release from the City of Saint John.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the current Mayor of Saint John?

Donna Noade Reardon serves as the Mayor of Saint John.

How does the split Deputy Mayor term work?

John MacKenzie serves as Deputy Mayor for the first two years of the term from 2026 to 2028. Gary Sullivan assumes the role for the final two years from 2028 to 2030.

What does the Deputy Mayor do?

The Deputy Mayor supports council operations, fills in for the Mayor when needed, leads meetings in her absence, and represents the city at official public functions.