New Belleville councillor sworn in but she is no stranger

The City of Belleville’s newest councillor was sworn in Wednesday afternoon, though she is a familiar face in council chambers.

Kelly Henderson is replacing Chris Malette who was elected Bay of Quinte MP in the recent federal election.

Henderson was appointed to the vacant seat as the eighth place finisher in Ward 1 in the 2022 municipal election.

Henderson, then known as Kelly McCaw, previously served on council from 2014 to 2022.

When asked about issues she hopes to see council address, Henderson says she hopes to speak with other councillors first before pushing anything specific, however, she says she remains a dedicated advocate for animal welfare and the Humane Society of Hastings Prince Edward.

“I’d really like to see us take more of a front-facing role with the Humane Society. I think there’s a lot we’ve done, there’s a lot more we can definitely do. So that’s one thing I find very important, always have.”

Henderson is a former board member of the Humane Society.

In a release from the city, Henderson added, “I am pleased to be joining this council and look forward to getting started in this role. As your Ward 1 councillor, I remain committed to working with my colleagues on addressing the current housing crisis, hoping to make Belleville the safest community in Ontario and continuing to advocate for our community.”

“On behalf of my colleagues on Belleville city council, I would like to welcome Councillor Henderson,” said Mayor Neil Ellis. “I am confident that Councillor Henderson‘s experience and knowledge will allow her to hit the ground running in this role and I look forward to what she will bring to the council horseshoe going forward.”

Henderson will participate in her first council meeting on June 9.