The City of St. Catharines is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Councillor N. Carlos Garcia, who represented Ward 6 (Port Dalhousie) since his election to City Council in 2014.
Councillor Garcia’s dedicated service and unwavering commitment to the community have left a profound impact on St. Catharines, and flags have been lowered to half mast at all City facilities until further notice in his honour.
Councillor Garcia’s contributions extended across numerous committees and task forces. Since this term of Council started in 2022, he served as Chair of the Budget Standing Committee, a member of the St. Catharines Hydro Inc. Board, the Performing Arts Centre Board, the Canine Control Hearing Committee, the 2029 Welland Canals Project Task Force, and the Neil Peart Commemorative Task Force.
During the 2018 to 2022 term, Councillor Garcia was the Chair of the Cultural Pillar Committee while also serving on the Canine Control Hearing Committee, the Organizational Effectiveness Task Force, the Performing Arts Centre Board, the St. Catharines Hydro Inc. Board, the 2029 Welland Canals Project Task Force, the Development Studies Task Force, the Neil Peart Commemorative Task Force, and the Surplus Lands Development Task Force.
From 2014 to 2018, his early contributions to Council included membership on the Port Dalhousie Business Association, the Advisory Committee Review Task Force, the Budget Standing Committee, the St. Catharines Hydro Inc. Board, and the Vicious Dog Appeal Committee, which was later renamed the Canine Control Hearing Committee.
In addition to his municipal responsibilities, Councillor Garcia served on Niagara Regional Council, after being appointed Oct. 1, 2009, through to the end of the term in 2010. His regional leadership further underscored his commitment to addressing complex issues and improving the quality of life for residents across Niagara.
As Chair of the Budget Standing Committee, Councillor Garcia played a pivotal role in establishing St. Catharines’ inaugural multi-year budget, a significant milestone in advancing the city’s financial sustainability and planning. His leadership in this capacity will leave a legacy of accountability and progress.
Throughout his tenure, Councillor Garcia was a passionate advocate for heritage preservation, environmental stewardship, and responsible urban planning. His work reflected his steadfast dedication to maintaining the cultural and historical fabric of the community he served in Port Dalhousie.
The City extends its condolences to Councillor Garcia’s family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. Details regarding memorial arrangements will be shared as they become available.
St. Catharines Mayor Mat Siscoe has issued a statement reflecting on Councillor Garcia’s contributions and legacy. It can be read in full here.
Read his Obituary.