A third candidate has filed nomination papers to run for mayor of Belleville.
Cynthia D. Black joins incumbent Neil Ellis and comedian Kyle Woolven on the ballot and is focused on social issues.
Seventy-nine-year-old Black, who comes from a non-profit background, is currently the president of both the Mood Disorders Society of Canada advocacy group and the Quinte branch of the National Association of Federal Retirees.
“The basic priorities I’m running on are homelessness, environment and community policing. I think those are the three main things. And if you can resolve the homeless issue then everything else falls into place.”
The Montreal-born Black who was the executive director of a not-for-profit organization in New Brunswick, moved to Belleville 10 years ago with her husband.
She also lived in Prince Edward County for 10 years, prior to moving to New Brunswick.
Though she has no council experience, Black says she worked with all levels of government through her non-profit roles.
She says her age makes time of the essence which is why she is running for mayor and not a seat on council.
“I want to get things done. I respect councillors, they help, they’re part of it, but I want to make sure that we follow the right path, that’s my concern. So I’ve got four years to give.”
Municipal election candidates have until August 21 to file their nomination papers.
Click here to see the unofficial list of candidates for both mayor and council.
In addition to the three mayoral candidates, as of late morning Friday, August 14, there are 12 people running for six seats in Ward 1 and three more vying for the two seats in Ward 2.
Ontario’s municipal elections will be held October 26.
