Flags have been lowered at Port Colborne City Hall this morning in memory of Regional Councillor Sandie Bellows, who passed away.
Mayor Steele shares the same sentiments as the message from Regional Chair Jim Bradley:
On behalf of Regional Council, it is with great sadness I share news that Regional Councillor Sandie Bellows passed away. Councillor Bellows was a valued member of our council and her presence will be missed in our meetings, and by her friends, family and constituents.
Councillor Bellows dedicated her life to the people of Niagara and was a fierce victims’ rights advocate. This advocacy saw her serve as a keynote speaker for many government and law enforcement agencies, including conferences for the Ontario and Canadian Police Chiefs, hostage negotiators, and American law enforcement agencies. In recognition of her work in this area, Councillor Bellows was invited by Prime Minister Harper to the Victims Bill of Rights ceremony in 2015.
Councillor Bellows was a highly respected St. Catharines resident, where she volunteered with numerous community organizations, bringing her experience and expertise to these positions. In 2018, Councillor Bellows was appointed as a commissioner on the Niagara Parks Board of Commissioners. Additionally, Councillor Bellows held board positions with Niagara Grape and Wine Festival, Crime Stoppers of Niagara, St. Catharines Minor Hockey Association Board, Vic Teal International Tournament and May Court Club of St. Catharines.
Councillor Bellows took her responsibilities as an elected official seriously, and effectively carried out these duties with integrity. Even while Councillor Bellows courageously battled her illness, she continued to attend Regional Council meetings and assist residents with their concerns. Her absence will be felt across the entire Niagara Region.
Our thoughts are with Councillor Bellows’ friends and family as they mourn this significant loss.