Ward 8 Councillor-Elect Rob Cooper was at Hamilton City Hall this morning to begin his transition in preparation to join City Council in the coming weeks.
Cooper won the Ward 8 by-election with 1,129 votes when the ballots were counted last night.
He was meeting with various members of City Council today and was congratulated by Mayor Andrea Horwath.
Asked, “Now that you are elected, how does it feel?” Cooper said:
“It’s exciting. There’s a lot we have to do, and I think it’s an interesting time in the life cycle of the city. And so I’m excited to roll up my sleeves and get going.”
On how he wishes people to think about him as he begins his term, Cooper said:
“During this campaign, I’ve taken no political endorsements from parties or candidates, and, um, I just represent the residents of Ward 8. And so coming into office, that is my political party, the residents of Ward 8. I’m interested in working with everyone, and we all come from different perspectives, different life experiences. And I think the ability to collaborate will allow us to get some really great solutions for the city.”
When asked what three character traits Cooper hopes will describe his work on Council in ten months:
“Collaborative, Communicator, and ‘got results.'”
Cooper Can Take Office Once Results Are Certified
Currently, the City’s plan is to swear Cooper into office at the beginning of the October 8 Council meeting.
Under the Municipal Act and the Municipal Elections Act, Cooper can take his declaration of office once the election results are certified.
This is being considered in order to allow Cooper to participate in Council committee meetings next week.
Full Transcript
Joey Coleman A win last night for you , in a very tough campaign. Congratulations You registered on day one. You ran a smart campaign. You’re now elected. How does it feel?
Rob Cooper How does it feel? It’s exciting. There’s a lot we have to do. And I think it’s an interesting time in the life cycle of the city. And so I’m excited to roll up my sleeves and get going.
Joey Coleman And, you know, you’re new to being elected. You’ve been involved in politics for quite a while. Um, I’m sure people have presumptions about you. I’m curious, how do you define yourself and how do you want people seeing you as you enter office?
Rob Cooper Excellent question. During this campaign, I’ve taken no political endorsements from parties or candidates, and, um, I just represent the residents of Ward 8. And, so coming into office, that is my political party, the residents of Ward 8. I’m interested in working with everyone, and we all come from different perspectives, different life experiences. And I think the ability to collaborate will allow us to get some really great solutions for the city.
Joey Coleman And my last question for you is three character traits in the next ten months. When when I write the review in ten months, what are the three character traits you hope I use to describe you?
Rob Cooper Wow, that is a tough one. Three character traits. Yes. Collaborative. communicator. And got results.
Production Details
v. 1.0.0
Published: September 23, 2025
Last updated: September 23, 2025
Author: Joey Coleman
Update Record
v. 1.0.0 original version