The Mayor’s Heart of the Community Award

During last night’s Chamber of Commerce President’s Dinner, Mayor Neil Ellis was pleased to unveil the launch of The Mayor’s Heart of the Community Award – a new award designed to recognize and celebrate the exceptional dedication of select community members and volunteers, and the impact they have on our community.

The first recipient of The Mayor’s Heart of the Community Award is outgoing Chamber of Commerce President Chris Auger. Chris was chosen for this prestigious award for his leadership, his passion, and the enthusiasm he displayed while serving as Chamber President this past year.

“Chris’s tireless efforts, compassion and selflessness in this role have made a significant difference, inspiring entrepreneurs both young and old alike,” said Mayor Neil Ellis. “The contribution he has made does not go unnoticed. It is individuals like Chris who truly embody the spirit of community and civic duty, and we are very pleased to be recognizing him with this award.”

About the Award: The Mayor’s Heart of the Community Award contains a carefully crafted wooden heart, etched with an image of City Hall. Built in 1873 as a town hall and market by local architect John D. Evans, the High Victorian gothic revival building was built using limestone and red brick. The building became Belleville City Hall in 1877 when Belleville became a city. In 1988, two floors were added to City Hall during an extensive renovation and re-design by local Architect, Bill White. This heart was made from actual timber reclaimed during this renovation, thus allowing recipients of the award to truly hold a part of the City’s history.