Belleville’s mayor and council, for the next four years, were sworn in at city hall on Monday.
After being sworn in by Justice Wolf Tausenfreund, Mayor Mitch Panciuk laid out some of his proposals for the four years ahead.
Panciuk calls for more of the city’s casino money to support “vulnerable” residents.
The new mayor said he wants to recognize that churches, synagogues, mosques are all helping people.
“I had a very successful meeting last week with the Downtown Belleville Improvement Association. I put out to them some goals that got good feedback.”
In a media scrum, he made it clear where he stands on future waterfront development, “We will lay out our plans for the downtown waterfront reinvestment in the coming months. We’re not saying we’re not going to do it, but we’re not committed to charging ahead without a proper plan.”
Panciuk says he wants to “get down to work” with the Agricultural Society regarding relocating the Quinte Ex for what he says “can unlock the economic potential of the site” for the city.
The fourth floor council chambers at city hall was packed with family and members of the public. There was also a screening room on the third floor to handle the overflow of people wanting to attend this year’s inaugural session.
From left, Belleville city clerk Matt MacDonald swears in new council members, Pat Culhane, Ryan Williams, Bill Sandison, and Chris Malette, December 3, 2018 (Photo: Mary Thomas/Quinte News)
Belleville Ward 2 Councillor Paul Carr replies to Mayor Panciuk’s inaugural speech, December 3, 2018 (Photo: Mary Thomas/Quinte News)
Belleville Mayor Mitch Panciuk with councillors, from left, Pat Culhane, Kelly McCaw, Sean Kelly, Chris Malette, Ryan Williams, Garnet Thompson, Paul Carr, and Bill Sandison, December3, 2018 (Photo: Submitted/ City of Belleville)
