Date: June 3, 2025

On the evening of June 2, 2025, during the final regular council meeting of outgoing Mayor Brad Henderson, he chose to use his platform to publicly address what he framed as a lesson on “process and democracy.” During this presentation, the mayor displayed images of my petition, photos from my social media, and made direct references to claims that I had paid for likes and engagement on my Facebook posts concerning the Wharf Infill Project. While I was not named outright, this is a small town, and it was abundantly clear to everyone in attendance and watching online that I was the subject of his remarks.

The mayor further insinuated dishonest or unethical behavior regarding my efforts to raise awareness about the wharf project, including the baseless implication that my contact with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans was somehow underhanded. In truth, my outreach to DFO was related to genuine concerns about the impact of the proposed project on my own waterfront property and was entirely appropriate.

I believe Mayor Henderson’s actions constitute a serious breach of the municipal Code of Conduct, particularly in relation to:

• Abuse of authority and misuse of public office: Using a prepared presentation during a formal council meeting to target and discredit a private citizen and business owner by exploiting his position and public platform.
• Failure to treat residents with respect and dignity: Publicly humiliating me and dissuading others from civic engagement by creating a hostile atmosphere around democratic participation.
• Undermining public trust: Implying that citizen feedback was illegitimate or purchased diminishes the validity of public discourse and discredits honest, grassroots participation.
• Harassment and intimidation: While indirect, the mayor’s actions were clearly intended to shame, embarrass, and discredit me. The emotional impact is real and lasting, particularly as someone managing ongoing mental health challenges.

Speaking up on local issues—especially as a property and business owner—is not easy, particularly when one’s mental health is already under strain. I did not take it lightly. I’ve been involved throughout this project, consulted professionals and government departments, and spoke publicly only when other channels failed to yield transparency or responsiveness.

To be treated this way by the town’s top elected official sends a chilling message to anyone who might consider speaking up in the future. This is precisely why so many community members stay silent—for fear of public shaming, retaliation, or dismissal.

I am requesting that this complaint be formally reviewed under the Town of Saint Andrews Council Code of Conduct policy.

At minimum, I am seeking:

• A formal acknowledgement of the harm caused by the mayor’s actions.
• A public apology recognizing the inappropriate use of council time and resources to target a private citizen.
• A review of council protocols to ensure future mayors and councillors cannot use their platform to single out or disparage residents.

The full meeting video is publicly available here:

Screenshots, social media posts, and the referenced petition can also be provided upon request.

Respectfully,

Cindy Kohler

Waterfront Property Owner & Business Owner

St. Andrews, New Brunswick