Belleville’s mayor Neil Ellis is assuring the public that the downtown area is perfectly safe.
In a statement released today, the mayor addressed concerns that the downtown area might be unsafe after the recent string of overdoses in the area, and after people were cautioned to avoid the area on Tuesday, in an effort to keep roadways clear for emergency vehicles.
“I work here, walk here and spend my free time here and have never felt unsafe,” said Mayor Ellis. “We have a beautiful downtown core with so many incredible businesses and it is unfortunate that recent news has painted such a negative picture.”
He went on to say that addictions, mental health, and homelessness are issues that impact the whole city rather than just the downtown area, and that Belleville is one among many Canadian communities facing similar issues.
Read the full statement below:
Statement from Mayor Neil Ellis Regarding Downtown Belleville
I would like to take a moment to address some of the false narratives that have been circulating regarding the safety of our downtown core.
When addressing the unfortunate events of the past two days, it was never the intention to make people afraid to come downtown. I work here, walk here and spend my free time here and have never felt unsafe. We have a beautiful downtown core with so many incredible businesses and it is unfortunate that recent news has painted such a negative picture. This was never the intention.
Addiction, mental health and homelessness is something that impacts our entire city. It is not a “downtown issue” that is limited to any borders. We are facing this crisis as a community and we are not alone. Municipalities across the province and country are facing these same issues and that is why we have called on senior levels of government for support.
Belleville remains a wonderful place to live, work and visit and I am proud to be part of a such a strong-knit community. Now, more than ever, we need to come together to support the many locally owned businesses operating in our downtown core.
I encourage residents and businesses alike to visit our downtown core and take advantage of all The Downtown District has to offer.
