New bilingual sign requirement stirs uproar in N.B. community, prompting mayor to quit

The mayor of the recently amalgamated community of Beausoleil, which encompasses Cocagne, has resigned.

Jean Hébert says he doesn't want to continue working in what has become a divisive and confrontational environment.

People in the community are split over a couple of issues, said Hébert — primarily, a new bylaw requiring a phase-in of bilingual signs that would give French top billing.

"A lot of signs were just in English. … The federation of municipalities was giving money for the signs that would have been bought and the municipality was ready to get involved, too. So … it wouldn't have been costly, but some people wanted to keep their sign as it was."

The Francophone Association of the Municipalities of New Brunswick would cover 60 per cent of the cost of new signs to a maximum of $4,000. The municipality of Beausoleil would cover 40 per cent, to a maximum of $2,667.

After two months of public turmoil, Hébert said he couldn't see a way to move forward on the issue in a positive way.

"I was disappointed because I thought everything would come out all right," he said.

"I thought I could resolve every problem that comes along. I mean, I've been mayor for nine years. But … I couldn't resolve that problem."

Dozens of business owners attended a recent municipal council meeting, and some protesters outside held up signs in the windows.

The demonstrators demanded more transparency or the resignation of the mayor and municipal  manager.

"I think we sent a strong and clear message," said Vincent Cormier, chair of the protest group.

"There were no consultations, that's the main thing."

"It was never discussed with business," said Owen Newcombe of ON Sports.

"I'm not against French or English, but I should have the choice," he said.