COLD LAKE – City of Cold Lake Coun. Bob Mattice has filed his nomination papers to run for mayor in the upcoming 2025 municipal election.
With the nomination period open until noon on Sept. 22, Mattice is the first candidate to publicly announce his bid to fill the seat, which is being vacated by long-time Mayor Craig Copeland. The election is scheduled for Oct. 20.
“The main thing is that we have a vacancy from Mayor Copeland. It's been 18 years. He is retiring from civic duty. So big, big shoes to fill,” Mattice said.
Mattice, currently in his first term on council, sees running for mayor as a natural progression in his political journey, aiming to continue contributing to Cold Lake’s growth.
Mattice has lived in Cold Lake since 1988.
“I've only been on council this term - this is my first term - so we're on our fourth year. . . But I've lived here since 1988, so that's like 37 years.”
Mattice described his affinity for the close-knit nature of the city.
“I've always liked smaller places where you can get to know people and develop relationships, as opposed to bigger places.”
Reflecting on his time on council, Mattice spoke about his appreciation for the experience, so far.
“The experience of the last four years has been wonderful.” He also praised the current council and city administration.
“When people ask me, ‘Do you like being on council?’ I say, ‘I absolutely love it,’ because we have a really good council. We're led well by our mayor and our city staff. When you're at our meetings, you can see our dynamic - it’s respectful, but jovial. We have lots of fun, but this is a really good council that has exceeded my expectations.”
Before joining council, Mattice spent 35 years as a business owner and healthcare provider, having owned a local pharmacy for 30 years before selling it to focus on his role with City council.
“I’ve done volunteer work over the years throughout the city, like many people do for their children’s activities. But I've always been an advocate for where we live. I learned that from my parents - they always said, ‘Bloom where you're planted’.”
Mattice's priorities include addressing homelessness, crime, and healthcare.
“Healthcare access has been an issue for years, and with the city's growth, that challenge has increased, especially with the shortage of physicians. The city has been proactive, we brought the Cold Lake Medical Clinic, and we have further plans to address healthcare needs, which are already showing good results.”
Mattice also noted the economic and infrastructure developments in the city. “We need to keep up with what’s expected in the next few years, whether it's the F-35 program, oil and gas, or new economic developments. Thanks to Mayor Copeland, past councils, and our city staff, we are on the right journey.”
He also highlighted key infrastructure projects and regional cooperation. “Highway 28 is a big concern for people, and we’re working on infrastructure improvements. Our relationships with Cold Lake First Nations, the MD of Bonnyville, and the Town of Bonnyville are strong, but there's always room for enhancement.”
He added, “We have room for improvement, and we can be kinder. My focus is on civility and generosity - just keeping up the good work.”
