Fundy Regional Service Commission

Aspiring Collaborative Excellence, Resilient Communities and Delivering Valuable Outcomes


O C T O B E R 8 , . 2 0 2 5

The FRSC is committed to responsible service delivery that provides equitable access to programs and services for residents across the region. 


Guided by the principles of sustainability, enhanced quality of life, accountability and continuous improvement, we are responsible for Solid Waste Management, Community Planning & Building Inspection Services, Regional Public Safety, Regional Transportation, Community Development, Regional Facilities, and Economic Development & Tourism Promotion.

U P D A T E S

2026 FRSC Budget Review - Key Updates

Following the August 28 Board meeting and the launch of the 45-day review period for the draft 2026 Budget, the FRSC met with Rothesay, Hampton, Quispamsis, Fundy-St. Martins, and Grand Bay-Westfield, as well as the regional group of CAOs and the Rural District Manager.

The proposed budget includes a reduction of approximately $78,800 in total membership contributions, while maintaining strong external funding of approximately $4.15 million, an increase of $1.4 million from 2025.


The overall feedback to the draft budget has been positive; however, the main area of concern with the draft budget continues to be the regional facilities capital costs. Members express concern about the sustainability of current cost allocations, the inability of all members except Saint John to borrow for these costs, and the uncertainty surrounding future provincial funding.  


Regional Facilities Capital

Through continued advocacy by the FRSC Board and intervention from the Minister of Local Governance, the FRSC is now under consideration for up to $715,000 in potential savings related to regional facilities capital, marking the first time the Government of New Brunswick has considered pre-approval of these costs ahead of a fiscal year.


The FRSC will pursue early RDC funding approvals to reduce future costs and pressures, and has requested the Minister’s clarification on his intent to review the regional facilities capital framework in the coming weeks, with the Province expressing their commitment to work with the FRSC.


Correspondence with the Minister on page 89 of this month's agenda kit.

Full report on page 33 of this month's agenda kit.


Service-Based Budget Updates

The service-based budget, a new feature of the FRSC budget development process, has been well received during the review period, as it helps illustrate the impact and direction of each FRSC mandate. These service-based budget summaries have been updated to include:

  • Expanded coverage of Tourism Promotion, Economic Development, and Community Planning & Building Inspection.
  • Inclusion of total budget costs alongside net membership fees.
  • A summary of each service’s progress and outcomes.

These updates are included on page 37 of this meeting agenda kit.


Later this month, the FRSC Board will meet to vote on the 2026 Budget, with decisions informed by member feedback, ongoing discussions with the Province, and a commitment to financial sustainability for the region.


Join Us for the Regional Summit 


November 20 | Saint John Trade and Convention Centre

The Regional Summit is officially set for Thursday, November 20th, from the afternoon into the evening (doors open at 2:30 pm). Thank you to all for responding to the survey in last month’s newsletter.


The Summit brings together all council members and will spotlight the work of FRSC committees on key initiatives shaping our region’s future. Participants will have the chance to weigh in on priorities, share local perspectives, and help shape next steps.

Here’s what you can expect:



  • Interactive Workshops on key regional initiatives.
  • Plenary Session to share insights and updates.
  • Reception & Dinner celebrating regional success stories, with invitations extended to MLAs, MPs, and community leaders.


Staying Informed

Email calendar invitations have been sent. Summit details and updates will be shared by email as they become available. 

For more details, please reach out to
information@fundyregion.ca

Strengthening the Region Through Inclusion: Immigration Strategy Presented to FRSC

At the last FRSC Board meeting, Envision Saint John: The Regional Growth Agency presented the Pathways to Belonging: Regional Immigration Strategy, developed through the Saint John Local Immigration Partnership, now hosted by Envision Saint John.


Its goal is to help newcomers in the region feel at home by fostering welcoming and inclusive communities, aligning economic and educational opportunities, and coordinating regional efforts through shared data and collaboration.


Earlier this month, FRSC staff and representatives from across the Fundy Region attended the official launch of the strategy, reflecting regional interest and commitment to building a more inclusive future.


Learn more about Pathways to Belonging

Read the full strategy here.

F E A T U R E D _ S T O R I E S

FRSC Regional Transportation Committee Visits KV Go

Earlier this week, the FRSC Regional Transportation Committee visited the KV Go demonstration project in Quispamsis and Rothesay.


Committee members had the opportunity to see the service in action and discuss how pilot projects like KV Go can shape future regional transportation. The visit provided valuable insight into how accessible transit can help residents reach essential destinations, from grocery stores and banks to medical appointments and community spaces.


Early reception from the community has been positive, reflecting the value of testing new approaches to local transit.


We congratulate the Town of Quispamsis and RothesayNB for taking the lead on this initiative. We also acknowledge the NB Economic and Social Inclusion Corporation (ESIC) for its financial contribution in support of the project.


To learn more about this pilot project, please visit KVGo.org

Discover how social enterprises can strengthen our communities!

You are invited to join “Building Stronger Communities through the Social Economy” — a 90-minute virtual learning session hosted by Social Enterprise New Brunswick, through The Pond-Deshpande Centre at the University of New Brunswick (PDC), in partnership with the Economic and Social Inclusion Corporation (ESIC). This session is designed to explore how the social economy and social enterprises can help solve the challenges in the Fundy Region.


Social enterprises are locally driven businesses with a social mission — offering innovative ways to create jobs, deliver essential services, and keep wealth within our communities. This interactive session will equip you with practical tools and inspiring examples you can put into action immediately — whether you’re addressing rural economic development, housing and workforce issues, or strengthening local services.


  • October 29 | 2:00 - 3:30 PM
  • Online Session


Please share this invite to your community and economic development leaders. Let's explore strategies tailored to our local priorities!

Congratulations to the Town of Hampton on the Opening of the Summit Centre

The Fundy Regional Service Commission extends congratulations to the Town of Hampton on the opening of the Summit Centre, a new recreation facility that represents a major milestone for the community.


The Centre officially opened on October 4, offering new opportunities for recreation and community connection. Its development reflects Hampton’s strong commitment to enhancing the quality of life of its residents.


The Grand Opening Ceremony will take place on Sunday, October 26, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.

Learn more here.

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