Former Belleville mayor’s legacy continues to grow in east end park

It’s been 44 years since Robin Jeffrey last served the citizens of Belleville but her legacy was honoured again at the park that bears her name on Thursday.

A white-flowering crabapple tree was planted in the Robin Jeffrey Park, at the corner of Bleecker and Bridge Street East, the same type of tree the former mayor and alderman has in her yard at home.

Jeffrey tells Quinte News it was a special moment to share with friends, family and residents of the city.

Audio Player

00:00

Use Up/Down Arrow keys to increase or decrease volume.

A large crowd gathers during a tree dedication ceremony, in honour of former Belleville Mayor Robin Jeffrey, on August 29, 2019. (Photo: David Foot / Quinte News)

Mayor Mitch Panciuk spoke about some of Jeffrey’s accomplishments as mayor, including her work with the department of parks and local conservation authorities.

Audio Player

00:00

Use Up/Down Arrow keys to increase or decrease volume.

Panciuk added that it’s important to honour the city’s past as we move forward.

Audio Player

00:00

Use Up/Down Arrow keys to increase or decrease volume.

Former Belleville Mayor Robin Jeffrey poses with fellow former mayors Neil Ellis and Mary-Ann Sills, and current Mayor Mitch Panciuk, on August 29, 2019. (Photo: David Foot / Quinte News)

The 94 year-old Jeffrey, who served as alderman from 1968 to 1972 and as mayor from 1973 to 1975 also ran for the provincial PC party.

Mayor Panciuk says ethics were always at the forefront during Jeffrey’s tenure which factored partly into that decision.

Jeffrey is getting set to move away from the city to be closer to her family.

(Photo: David Foot / Quinte News)