Two Moncton city councillors put their names forward to become deputy mayor to serve a one year term.
At Monday’s regular council meeting, the mayor and council had a choice between Ward 3 councillor Bryan Butler and Ward 4 councillor Susan Edgett – who are each serving their second terms in office.
Prior to a vote, Butler made his pitch to fellow councillors.
“I love the city with all my heart. That’s why I’ve dedicated 34 years of it to policing and after I was done policing, I dedicated these last six years – to supply myself and away from my family – to council because I really do care about the city.”
Edgett also made a pitch to her fellow councillors.
“I’m certainly concerned with – as is my co-counsellor in my ward – everything that is happening in Ward 4. But I’m certainly very, very focused on our strategic plan which involves all of our city. If you look at my voting record, I have voted in favour of its major items.”
Edgett lost to Butler in a 7-4 vote by the mayor and council.
Mayor Dawn Arnold admitted the selection process makes many around the table feel uncomfortable including herself.
Several councillors expressed similar concerns.
After the vote, council directed the Enhancing Democracy Committee to examine possible changes to the selection process in the future.
Councillor Charles Leger had served as deputy mayor over the last year.
The deputy mayor fills-in for the mayor when needed.
