Chamber Calls for Bold Leadership Following Council’s Rezoning Rejection

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 7, 2025

Chamber Calls for Bold Leadership Following Council’s Rezoning Rejection

Saint John, NB – The world is watching—and the message Saint John sends right now matters.

The Saint John Region Chamber of Commerce is expressing deep disappointment following Saint John City Council’s decision to reject the permanent rezoning application for the J.D. Irving-owned Wolastoq Park property. While the conversation has often been reduced to a parking lot, the implications run much deeper. This moment represents a test of Saint John’s readiness to embrace growth, welcome investment, and support the economic momentum required for real, lasting progress.

“This decision comes at a critical time,” said Shannon Merrifield, CEO of the Saint John Region Chamber of Commerce. “With the looming threat of new tariffs and growing global economic uncertainty, any community would welcome a $1.5 billion investment as a signal of confidence in their future. The question is—will Saint John?”

J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI), which employs over 4,000 people in our region, has long contributed not only to the local economy but also to the community’s social well-being—supporting charitable initiatives such as PALS, BCAPI, and the Irving Nature Park. This investment is not just about jobs; it’s about strengthening the entire social fabric of our region.

Economic development is the foundation of progress. It funds the fight against poverty, enables housing construction, expands transit systems, and sustains the infrastructure our city depends on. Local businesses—restaurants, hotels, and service providers—stand to benefit from the influx of contractors and spending tied to this project, especially during this time of economic instability.

“We acknowledge that growth can bring discomfort,” Merrifield continued. “But if we’re serious about being open for business and committed to long-term progress and drive economic change – we need to navigate these transitions together.”
The Chamber is urging residents and business leaders alike to speak with Council and make their voices heard.

Now is the time to send a clear and unified message: Saint John is ready—for investment, for innovation, and for a future that works for everyone.

What Was at Stake

While Option 3—a temporary rezoning—was proposed, the decision to dismiss this option from JDI’s perspective were:

· A $7 million investment in parking infrastructure, park upgrades, and community benefits—potentially lost in just five years.
· A commitment from JDI to fund future upgrades to Simms Corner—estimated in the tens of millions of dollars.
· An additional $2 million in community-driven proposals and discussions presented during the process.

“No business can justify that level of investment under such uncertainty—particularly in today’s volatile economic climate,” added Merrifield. “We need to ask ourselves: what message are we sending to the world when doing business in our city comes with this level of risk and delay?”

The Chamber remains committed to supporting responsible growth and invites the community to join in advocating for a Saint John that is forward-looking, investment-ready, and economically resilient.

Media Contact:
Shannon Merrifield
CEO, Saint John Region Chamber of Commerce
Email: smerrifield@thechambersj.com

The Saint John Region Chamber of Commerce is a nationally accredited business organization dedicated to fostering an economic climate that enhances growth, prosperity, and an improved quality of life in the community. With close to 600 member businesses, representing the interests of 37,000 people, The Chamber is a dynamic advocate and the principal voice for the business community of Greater Saint John. It offers a variety of programs, activities, services, and networking opportunities designed to enhance the business prospects of members and the overall business climate of the area.