District of Carleton North voters head to the polls on May 11
The following are responses to questions sent to each candidate from the River Valley Sun. Their answers are unedited. Thanks to reporter Sandra Hanson for gathering the responses.
MAYOR
Andrew Harvey – Incumbent
Why are you reoffering?
I am re-offering to continue the work we started in our first term. We have introduced and completed many files in the past three years, but there is much more to do. In our 1st term, we established new annual municipal funding for our community groups, launched the District of Carleton North Sports Wall of Recognition, and invested in our dedicated fire service volunteers in Lakeville, Centreville, Bath, Juniper, Glassville, and Florenceville-Bristol. We have also worked closely with the provincial government and our MLA to advance many provincial projects in Carleton North. I look forward to continuing this work with the council and staff, and to serving the great people of the District of Carleton North.
What do you bring to the council table?
I have experience working in the Provincial Government as a local MLA and Cabinet Minister. I got to meet and work with many people who are still in the provincial government. These contacts serve our area well as we navigate through many projects in partnership with the provincial government. I also have a good relationship with our local MLA, Margaret Johnson, and we work collaboratively on many files. I also have the energy and drive to work full-time.
What do you see as the biggest challenge facing your community?
We have a great municipality. When I face a challenge, I see an opportunity. There have been some growing pains as our municipality has come together over the past three years, but I believe we have turned the corner on many fronts. We are poised for significant economic growth in the years ahead, and I want to work with Council to create more opportunities for our people. I always believe that our best days are still ahead of us. We need to keep our focus on spending wisely to balance our budgets, investing in our people and infrastructure and keeping our municipal property taxes low.
One challenge is reaching people. There are 4,000 homes in the District of Carleton North, and it is hard to knock on every door. I have a brochure that everyone will receive in the mail, and I try to see as many people as I can. I encourage people to reach out to me by phone at 506-245-1444 or by email at andrewharvey506@gmail.com. I look forward to hearing from you. I ask for your support so we can continue growing… together!
Charles MacDonald
Why are you running?
I have strong ties and deep commitments to the community, and I would welcome the opportunity to serve the constituents of the District of Carleton North.
What do you bring to the council table?
I stand on my commitment to family and community. I have served in many ways Bath Village Council, regional development commission, volunteer on various fundraising committees. I feel strongly about making our community a safe place to live and grow , a place to raise our families.
What do you see as the biggest challenge facing your community?
I feel the different communities in the districts are not totally amalgamated, and this would be one of the things I would strive on. It is very important to encourage our younger generation to be more involved in a stronger voice in the growth and development of the district of Carleton North. The greatest challenge is getting to meet and hear concerns of the people I would like to represent , encouraging people to make their voices heard by voting and being enthused about the future of our area
Councillor at Large
Laurel Bradstreet – Incumbent
Why are you reoffering?
I have decided to reoffer as a candidate for the District of Carleton North for Councillor at large, as I feel I have accomplished a lot and still have much more to offer.
What do you bring to the council table?
I have been on council for 3 terms, with the former Village of Bristol, the former Town of Florenceville-Bristol and with the current District of Carleton North. One of the challenges for our District would be Healthcare.
What do you see as the biggest challenge facing your community?
Our council has worked hard advocating for our constituents as we need more Doctors in this Area to fill the void. On May 11 I ask for your support.
Jayne Geddes
Why are you running?
My name is Jayne Geddes, and I’m running for Councillor at Large in the District of Carleton North because I want to give back to a community that has given me so much. Over the past 19 years, I’ve had the opportunity to build River Valley Gymnastics from the ground up, and I’ve seen firsthand what can happen when people with big ideas are supported and given the chance to succeed. That experience has shaped how I approach challenges—I’ve never seen a closed door as the end of the road, but rather part of the process of finding another way forward. I want to bring that same mindset to council, advocating for others who are trying to build, grow, and contribute to our community.
What do you bring to the council table?
Through building and leading the club, I’ve gained experience in organizing, managing people and budgets, problem-solving, and making decisions that impact families and the broader community. I’ve learned the importance of listening, collaboration, and following through, along with the importance of transparency—being able to clearly explain decisions, share the information behind them, and show that different options have been thoughtfully considered before moving forward. These are qualities I believe are essential at the council table.
I know there are many important issues in our community, and I don’t pretend to know them all. Some I’ve heard a lot about, and others I’m still learning. What’s important to you is important to me, and I want people to feel comfortable bringing those concerns forward. I believe when you know better, you do better—and that starts with listening.
What do you see as the biggest challenge facing your community?
During my conversations with people in the community, several issues have come up time and time again. I believe council has an important role to play in advocating, partnering, and planning thoughtfully to move these priorities forward. Healthcare continues to be a major concern, along with affordable housing and the need for stronger supports for seniors. I’ve also heard a lot about the importance of investing in our outdoor spaces and making better use of what we already have, as well as creating more activities, spaces, and opportunities for youth and young adults. These are concerns I share and that are also important to me.
These conversations have given me even more confidence that I can make a meaningful impact and contribute in a positive way to our community. They’ve also reinforced for me that listening, asking questions, and staying connected to residents isn’t just part of a campaign—it’s who I am and how I will approach the role on council.
Karen Hargrove – Incumbent
Why are you reoffering?
My name is Karen Hargrove, and I am reoffering to serve as your Councillor at Large. I have always been community-minded and truly enjoy being a voice for our residents. Prior to serving on council, I built a foundation of varied experience as a treasurer, team manager, and organizational leader—roles that require dedication and a “behind-the-scenes” work ethic.
I take pride in contributing to the discussions that move our community forward. I knew the recent amalgamation would be challenging, and I wanted to ensure every corner of our new District had a voice in those foundational decisions. Having served through this transition, I’ve enjoyed the experience and know I have much more to give. I am committed to ensuring the District of Carleton North doesn’t just grow but thrives.
What do you bring to the council table?
I bring an open mind and the practical perspective of a small business owner who understands how to balance budgets and manage finances responsibly. My background is rooted in years of volunteering with local groups and organizations, combined with the personal experience of growing up and raising a family here.
Most importantly, I bring over 3 years of direct experience at the council table. I understand the learning curve of municipal government and am ready to hit the ground running on day one. I am genuinely excited about our future and dedicated to making our community a better place for everyone.
What do you see as the biggest challenge facing your community?
There are so many challenges that we are all facing right now. Costs are skyrocketing and our population is aging. We need to plan for the long term, not just the current term. We need to focus on improving our existing infrastructure; our roads, our buildings, our playgrounds. We need affordable options for housing. We need to advocate for our area so we are not overlooked. We need our young people to want to come back and settle in this area. We need to offer our residents services and activities that enhance the wonderful experience of living in The District of Carleton North. I am ready to work with the new council on all of these issues.
Kirby Lee Jensen
Why are you running?
I am running for council hoping to make decisions that will help the community’s economic and culture be in best interest for all.
What do you bring to the council table?
I am hoping I will bring openness and transparency to th table I will do my best to listen and make sure people feel heard
What do you see as the biggest challenge facing your community?
The biggest challenge for the community is to provide all essentials for the people.It has to provide this as well activities and entertainment for people to want to move and to even say and live here. THANKS.
David Trafford
I was born in Bath and grew up on a farm in Connell. I attended school in Florenceville and graduated in 1977. I have lived in the area my whole life except for the time I was away at school in Halifax or serving in the Armed Forces.
I have past service on the Village of Florenceville and Florenceville-Bristol council. I served the area for twenty five years as a Paramedic and I served the country for thirteen years in the Military. I am retired now and I am ready to serve again on Council.
On May 11 I humbly ask for your vote.
Ward 1
Nick Anderson
I am running for Councillor for Ward 1. I am a retired military veteran with 15 years of service in the infantry and naval communications. I moved to New Brunswick with my wife in 2023 seeking a quieter life and stronger community ties.
Since arriving, I’ve built connections with neighbors, local homesteaders, farmers, and my congregation. Through these conversations, I’ve learned about the daily challenges our community faces.
As your Councillor, my goal is to listen to your concerns and take action to improve your lives. Self-reliance and sustainability are core values I want to promote, helping every family thrive in uncertain times.
I am concerned about rising crime and theft. I will work on practical solutions to make our community safer for future generations.
Coming from out of province, I’ve seen what works and what doesn’t in municipal government. This fresh perspective will benefit Ward 1.
I’m passionate about creating positive change, starting with this campaign to build a better future for our families.
Lottie Nye
Why are you running?
I am Lottie Nye, representing Ward 1 in the District of Carleton North.
I have lived in this District my entire life. Centreville has been my home for most of those years.
What do you bring to the council table?
My husband and I raised our family here and built our lives in this rural area.
Running for Councillor at this time of my life was an easy decision. I have the time and dedication to commit to my community. I have always been community minded and although we have now amalgamated with the other communities, I want to be sure Centreville keeps our identity. District of Carleton North is the umbrella but our small communities should never lose who we are. I want to make sure each area has a fair and equitable place at the table. Each municipality and LSD still identifies as where we are from. We need to not lose that.
What do you see as the biggest challenge facing your community?
Our taxation budget has grown considerably since the merger and being a voice at the table to oversee the shared responsibility and be sure all areas are having their voices heard and needs met is my mandate.
We have seen growth in the last few years and we will continue to see changes. I would like to see the local areas and my Home Town Proud area of Centreville not lose the balance. Since the merger I feel as though the focus has been a bit unbalanced for some areas and I would like to be a part of keeping the balance.
In Ward 1 please consider me as your candidate on May 11.
Michael Stewart – Incumbent
Why are you reoffering?
I’m running again because I care about this community and I don’t think the job is finished yet. We’ve made some good progress, but there’s still more to do. I want to keep working for the people of Ward 1 and make sure your concerns are heard at the council table. I enjoy working with others in the community and trying to make a positive difference.
What do you bring to the council table?
I bring experience and a practical, common-sense approach. I listen to people, I return calls, and I try to make decisions that are fair and make sense for taxpayers. I’m not afraid to ask questions, and I work well with others to get things done.
What do you see as the biggest challenge facing your community?
One of the biggest challenges is keeping our community a great place to live while dealing with rising costs. We need to make sure we’re fixing roads and maintaining services without putting too much pressure on taxpayers. It’s about finding the right balance and planning ahead.
Ward 2
Tammy Nicholson-Kirkland
Why are you running?
Rooted in Community. Driven to Serve.
I was born and raised right here in our community. I’ve spent my life watching our fields being harvested, our truck drivers keep this region moving, and our local industries grow from the ground up.
For the past 14 years, I’ve managed a non-profit organization, working alongside dedicated board members to make decisions that help our community grow and bring more tourism to our area.
I’m proud to be a member of the Rotary Club of Florenceville-Bristol, involved in my local church, and someone who believes in giving back—whether that’s volunteering at hockey tournaments, helping with school breakfast programs, or supporting elderly family members through the winter months.
These experiences have connected me with people from all walks of life and shown me both the challenges we face and the strength we have when we support one another.
That’s why I’m running for Ward 2.
Because I believe our community deserves to be heard, represented, and supported—every single day.
Why I’m running – I believe that the upper end of Ward 2 needs to be heard and with myself being on the upper part I want everyone to be heard equally. A lot of elderly need heard and stood up for.
What do you bring to the council table?
What I bring to the council table – I bring experience to the table of working for a board for the last 14 yrs for a non profit organization, I have been in the trucking industry also from being the dispatcher to also an owner operator. With positions like this you have to learn to compromise and cooperate to get the job done with being a voice of reason.
What do you see as the biggest challenge facing your community?
I believe the biggest challenges in our community – Hearing what the elderly need and to assist with setting up ideas for them. Mostly communication with the people and informing them of what’s going on in our community and why because not all are on social media but still need to be informed.
Chris O’Donnell
Why are you running?
Lived in District all my life.
Volunteer at RCL for past 20 years.
Honest.
Hard working.
Family orientated.
Committed.
Open minded.
What do you see as the biggest challenge facing your community?
I feel it is important that we look at both ends of the cycle… What needs to be done to keep more of our young people in our area as well providing all of our Seniors with the adequate facilities and care they have earned and deserve…the later has built a sound foundation and the former will maintain and make it stronger!!
We need to spend our tax money wisely and hold people accountable.
I look forward to working with all the Councilors and Mayor to make our District stronger and an overall better place for young and old.
A vote for me would mean change… but change in a good way.
I DON’T WANT TO JUST BE A VOICE ON THE COUNCIL I WANT TO BE YOUR VOICE!!!
Connie Smith
I am proud to be a lifelong resident of Carleton County. Growing up on a small mixed family farm in Moose Mountain shaped my values early—hard work, responsibility, and the importance of looking out for one another. Those values continue to guide both my professional career and my commitment to community service.
Professionally, I have spent over 15 years with a global food company, currently serving as Manager of Global Travel Services. In this role, I manage budgets, negotiate contracts, build long-term partnerships, and work closely with diverse stakeholders to deliver practical, data-driven solutions. These experiences have strengthened my skills in financial oversight, strategic planning, collaboration, and accountability—skills that are directly relevant to responsible municipal governance.
Beyond my career, community involvement has always been a priority. I have served as a member & Co-Chair of Parent Student Support Committees within the District of Carleton North, volunteered with McCain supporting student STEAM initiatives, and contributed to local food security efforts and community support programs. I also bring governance experience from serving on national and global boards, where collaboration, transparency, and respectful decision-making were essential.
I am seeking a position on Town Council because I care deeply about the future of our community. I believe in practical, thoughtful leadership that listens to residents, respects public resources, and works toward sustainable solutions that strengthen quality of life for families, seniors, and vulnerable populations. I am committed to representing our community with integrity, respect, and a strong work ethic—and I would be honoured to earn your trust and your vote.
Chala Watson – Incumbent
Why are you reoffering?
I am re-offering as a councillor for Ward 2 in the District of Carleton North because I feel that over the past 3.5 years we have just scratched the surface of what needs to be done. I have been a strong voice for Ward 2 during budget discussions on tax increases for the Ward. I have also lobbied on my constituents’ behalf to have more road work done in our area and to address many other issues that rural municipal wards face.
What do you bring to the council table?
I bring more than a decade of experience in Municipal and Provincial Government. I was a Constituency Assistant to the MLA for Carleton-Victoria, an Executive Assistant to the Minister of Agriculture, Mines and Rural Affairs and an Executive Assistant to the Minister of Environment and Local Government. I have a vast knowledge of many government departments and would love the opportunity to continue to share my knowledge with fellow council members and members of the public.
What do you see as the biggest challenge facing your community?
The biggest challenges facing our community are access to Healthcare, Policing Services and the constant increases for goods and services. There is also a lack of communication between Municipal and Provincial governments. I feel that we need to be in consultation with the Province to ensure that everyone’s tax dollars are being spent to best improve everyone’s quality of life. Municipal government is the first contact with constituents, and I think it would be beneficial for there to be more communication with us on what matters most to the people.
We all deserve a community that thrives, is safe and vibrant. My focus remains on results you can see and I am asking for your continued support in building on what we have started, putting Ward 2 and the District of Carleton North first.
Ward 3
Stephen Armour
Experience & Service
- 47 years with Armour Meats – Recently sold the business and now semi-retired
- 40 years with Bath Fire Department, including 26 years as Fire Chief
- 10+ years on the Board of Directors for the New Brunswick Association of Fire Chiefs
- President, Central Valley Firefighter Association
- 15 years as a member of the Bath Lions Club – Held roles from Club President to District Level positions
- Community Response When It Counted
- December 2022: Personally powered and heated several homes in Carleton North for 5 days until December 27 when the grid was down
- 2023: Again helped residents with heat on a smaller scale during power outages
Priorities for Ward 3 & Carleton North
I’m always available to listen and take notes on your issues and concerns. If you’ve got an idea or a problem, I want to hear it.
Strengthen our 6 Fire Departments – Better support, training, and resources for the volunteers who protect us
Hold District of Carleton North accountable on the issues that matter to residents
Support seniors – Work toward local options for people living with Dementia and Alzheimer’s so families can stay close
Make this a better place to live – Focus on practical solutions, not politics
Ed Boyd
I am a fifth-generation farmer and lifelong member of this community, now running for Ward 3 with a steady, practical approach to leadership. My wife and I raised our four children here with values centered on responsibility, community, and care for others—values that continue to guide how I make decisions.
I studied Agricultural Business at the Nova Scotia Agricultural College (now part of Dalhousie University) and have spent 48 years farming in livestock, field crops, and woodlot management. That experience has taught me to think long-term, stay accountable, and adapt while protecting what matters.
I have always stayed involved in my community. I served three years as a School Board Trustee for District 30/31, volunteered with the Bath Lions Den, the Unfortunates Committee, and the Knights of Columbus, and coached minor hockey for 19 years. These roles kept me connected to people and grounded in everyday community needs.
My approach is simple: listen, be fair, and focus on what matters. I believe in careful decisions that reflect both present needs and the future.
I am running to continue giving back in a meaningful way and to represent Ward 3 with steady, respectful leadership. I would be honoured to serve if that approach reflects what matters to you.
Scott Oakes – Incumbent
Why are you reoffering?
Three years ago, when the opportunity to give back to my community presented itself, I was excited by the prospect. The last term has been challenging and rewarding, and I have been overwhelmed by the support and positive comments on the council’s progress toward making substantial investments in our community. During our mandate, we have focused on responsible growth, community investment and long-term planning for our area. There have been many positive changes over the last three years, and more are coming in our shared future. It is my wish to continue forward on this path and remain committed to advancing our vision for the district.
What do you bring to the council table?
My experience as a local business owner and my pragmatic approach to problem solving has, and will continue to allow me to work with all stakeholders to promote DCN’s strengths and push for growth. Throughout my lifetime I have been a coach at our local school and curling club, worked on the Processing Advisory Committee for New Brunswick potato growers, a B.R.A.I.N.Child Maritimes advocate, serve on the Margaret A Keenan daycare board, member of the Bath Lions and sit on the board of River Bend Festivals. The culmination of these life experiences give me a broad skillset to draw upon while serving as your councillor.
What do you see as the biggest challenge facing your community?
It is difficult to limit to one thing. I would say our largest hurdles as a district are our access to healthcare and police coverage to combat rising thefts in our area. We, as a council, have been proactive in lessening the impact of these problems by partnering with the province to develop a collaborative care clinic in Florenceville-Bristol. We have also strengthened policing through conversations with RCMP representatives and the Department of Public Safety. I believe with further work, we can overcome these issues.
I have been so blessed over the last term to be able to give back to an area that has given so much to my family and me. I humbly ask for your consideration on May 11th so I can continue working to improve our district.
Ward 4
Jillienne L. Denny
Why are you running?
I’m running for town council because I care deeply about our community and the people who call it home. Florenceville-Bristol has been a big part of my life for years, and I’ve always enjoyed being involved—whether that’s helping plan events, working with the public, or welcoming newcomers to our town. Through those experiences, I’ve seen what makes our community strong and where there are opportunities to grow. I want to be part of those conversations and help make thoughtful, practical decisions that reflect the needs of the people who live here.
What do you bring to the council table?
While I don’t have prior council experience, I bring a strong work ethic, a genuine connection with people, and a willingness to learn. I’m someone who listens, shows up, and follows through. I’m driven to get results and to do more for our community, and I’m committed to putting in the time and effort to make a positive impact.
What do you see as the biggest challenge facing your community?
I’ve thought long and hard about this question, and the truth is, it’s not a simple one to answer. What one family sees as a major challenge may be very different from what their neighbours are facing, or what I experience in my own situation—and none of those challenges are any less important than the others.
That’s why I believe one of the biggest challenges is making sure every voice is heard and represented. I want to help bring those perspectives forward and ensure the concerns of our community are listened to and thoughtfully addressed.
Ryan L. Dickinson – Incumbent
Why are you reoffering?
I am reoffering because I have unfinished business in Ward 4. I’ve launched key initiatives that require steady leadership to reach the finish line, and I am deeply committed to seeing them through. Above all, I truly enjoy being a direct link for my constituents—listening to their concerns and finding real solutions for our community.
What do you bring to the council table?
I bridge the gap between our youngest and oldest residents. My background in healthcare gives me a front-row seat to the changing needs of our seniors, while my experience as a parent and coach drives my passion for youth programs. I lead with transparency and believe in a collaborative, ‘no-surprises’ approach to local government.
What is the biggest challenge facing your community?
“The two biggest hurdles are the rising cost of living and the healthcare crisis. While global events drive costs: There are initiatives We, as a District, can do to soften the impact. I am focused on what we can control locally: healthcare access. I’ve already taken action by launching our Physician Recruitment and Retention Committee and opening a direct line of communication with the Minister of Health and Horizon Health to bring more Healthcare Providers to our District.”
Ward 5
Gailen W. Allan
Why are you running?
I am a life time resident of Glassville in Ward 5. I have experience on governing bodies in agriculture and the community.
What do you bring to the council table?
Experience
37 years: NB Seed Potato Growers Association (Director)
15 years: NB Agricultural Insurance Commission (Chairman)
44 years: Glassville Fire Department (Founding member)
46 years: Elder of my home church and clerk since 1995
40 years: School Bus driver with Province of NB
9 years: Board of Directors Carleton Co-Op
I am married and have 3 grand children. I am committed to working hard on behalf of the citizens of Ward 5 and District of Carleton North.
What do you see as the biggest challenge in your community?
I am concernced with the transportation strucutre of the area, our health care system and seniors of our area. They were a part of building what we have and what we are today.
I am a trusted individual who has experience and dedication to make District of Carleton North a better place to live and work as well as raise a family.
On May 11, I humbly as for your support.
Angel Connor – Incumbent
Why are you reoffering?
I’m reoffering because the past 3.5 years have been a very rewarding experience, and I feel there is still important work to be done. While there were learning curves as a new councillor, I’ve gained valuable experience and have been proud to work alongside a dedicated council. Together, we’ve made strong decisions, and I want to continue building on that progress, supporting community infrastructure, strengthening our local community clubs and ensuring all our communities continue to have a strong voice.
What do you bring to the council table?
I bring a strong work ethic, a willingness to listen, and a connection to the communities I represent. Having lived in Ward 5 my entire life and raising my family here, I care deeply about our future. I also bring years of hands-on community involvement through local boards and organizations, which gives me a good understanding of the needs at the local level. I pride myself on being fair, approachable, and transparent, and on working collaboratively to find solutions.
What do you see as the biggest challenge in your community?
One of the biggest challenges is ensuring that all our communities, large and small. Continue to feel heard and supported as we grow and move forward. That includes maintaining and improving infrastructure, supporting volunteers and community organizations, and making sure services are accessible across the district.
There are also key issues that residents raise consistently, including the need for a stronger police presence in our communities and continuing to advocate to the provincial government for more doctors in our area, as many people are currently without a primary healthcare provider.
Another important focus is supporting active, healthy lifestyles for our youth by investing in infrastructure and opportunities that keep children of all ages busy, engaged, and thriving.
Balancing these priorities while planning for long-term sustainability is something I take seriously and will continue to focus on.
