The City of Oshawa is mourning the loss of former city councillor Gail Bates, who was appointed to city council in March 2017 following a council vacancy.
A longtime Oshawa resident, Bates was a registered nurse and passionate environmentalist who entered local politics following her retirement, first as a volunteer Advisory Committee member on Heritage Oshawa, said a city statement.
She served as a city councillor from March 2017 to November 2018. During her time on council, Bates also served as the council representative on the Oshawa Environmental Advisory Committee.
She Bates will be remembered for her advocacy for the city’s waterfront and her commitment to Oshawa’s rich heritage.
A book of condolences is available on the city’s website.
“The City of Oshawa extends its deepest condolences to the Bates family,” said Oshawa Mayor Dan Carter. “Gail truly cared about Oshawa and wanted nothing more than to make a positive impact for the community. Today, our flags have been lowered to honour her service to our great city. Thank you, Gail – you will be missed.”
Flags at City Hall have been lowered to half-mast in memory of Bates.