United Way executive director applies to fill Ward 8 vacancy

The seat has been vacant since the sudden passing of Fabio Belli in April. Earlier this month, councillors decided to appoint someone to replace him, but to allow them to run in the Oct. 27 municipal election.

“Having a proven track record of incubating community based initiatives and working collaboratively with any group in need from a non-profit to a for-profit business model, Cullen has a proven track record of community engagement and follow through,” the release from his campaign said.

Cullen was raised in New Sudbury, the release said, and still has close family ties and many friends in the area, “as well having strong ties to Fabio.”

A few weeks before his death, Cullen said he and Belli were taking about “possibly having Fabio assist (him) in navigating the upcoming municipal election, should (he) wish to declare a nomination at some future point.”

“Fabio was a trusted ally and it is only fitting that I do my very best to fulfill his dreams for our fine city,” Cullen is quoted as saying.