At the conclusion of this term, in the 1906 election, Bellamy made his first of three bids for mayor. During his campaign, he emphasized the city's need to build and expand the street rail system and the importance and possible expansion of the parks system. He also reaffirmed his previous support for municipal ownership, stating that it had helped Edmonton to become "one of the most advanced cities in Canada". His campaign was supported by the main city newspaper at the time, The "Edmonton Bulletin", which stated their belief that the city was at a crucial developmental state which required many improvements to its facilities and utilities, and that " needs the oldest seaman at the wheel", citing Bellamy's extensive experience in municipal affairs. He finished second of three candidates, being defeated by William Antrobus Griesbach, 717 to 301 votes. Later the next year, he returned to council as an alderman the next election, finishing third of twelve candidates. He would later resign halfway through his two-year term to contest the mayoral race in 1908 election, after John Alexander McDougall opted to retire. This time, he was defeated by Robert Lee.