About Rob

Leadership that delivers results.

I am running for Mayor because I believe Hamilton is at a turning point – and because I know we can do better.

I ran for City Council on a promise of real change. Since joining Council, I have learned something important: the ability to change the direction of this city largely rests with the mayor, for better or worse.
Over the last four years, Hamilton residents have watched our city decline.

Property taxes have increased by 23 percent.
Homelessness has quadrupled.
Gun violence has reached record highs.
Our roads are the worst in Ontario.
We’ve had no financial statements in the last 3 years.
Residents are paying more, and are getting less.

Hamilton is a multibillion-dollar city. Running a city of this scale requires more than good intentions – it requires proven leadership, sound judgment, and real executive experience.

Every $13 million mistake represents a 1 percent tax increase for Hamilton taxpayers. There have been too many $13 million mistakes.
Hamiltonians deserve better.

Why I'm Running

I am running because Hamilton needs experienced leadership. Hamiltonians are struggling to stay in their homes, worried about rising taxes, and questioning whether they can build a future here. Businesses are trying to grow in a city that too often makes it difficult to survive. Most importantly, I am running to help Hamilton realize its full potential.

Having lived in Hamilton my entire life, I care deeply about this city and the people who call it home. Like so many Hamiltonians, I share the disappointment with how our city is being run. We know what Hamilton is capable of becoming.

A Proven Record of Delivering Results

Throughout my career, organizations have brought me in to solve difficult problems, transform complex systems, and deliver measurable results.

That is what I do.

I have spent decades leading major organizations across both the public and private sectors, helping improve performance, strengthen accountability, and deliver results in high-pressure environments where failure was not an option.

I hold 13 professional degrees and designations, including a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), Master of Business Administration (MBA), and Chartered Director designation. I have also completed executive education at McMaster University, Harvard Business School, Stanford Graduate School of Business, INSEAD, and London Business School. More importantly, I have delivered results.

MY Vision for Hamilton

Hamilton has extraordinary potential. We have the port, the airport, world-class manufacturing, skilled trades, leading educational institutions, and one of the most productive agricultural regions in the country.

Few cities have what we have. I believe Hamilton has the potential to become the economic engine of Canada.
But reaching that potential requires leadership with the vision, experience, and discipline to deliver real results.

Leadership that respects every taxpayer dollar.
Leadership that demands accountability.
Leadership that delivers outcomes – not excuses.

City Hall must be focused on measurable results that improve people’s daily lives — results residents can see, feel, and experience. That means better services, real results, and a city that works for Hamiltonians.

Give me Hamilton for four years, and you won’t recognize it – in a good way.

The Future We Can Build Together

I believe Hamilton can be safer, more affordable, and more prosperous than ever before.

We can tackle violent crime and improve public safety.
We can repair and rebuild our roads and infrastructure.
We can cap taxes and restore affordability.
We can accelerate housing and unlock economic growth.
We can give City Hall back to Hamiltonians.

Hamilton’s best days are ahead. I know where this city can go, and I know how to get us there. Together, we can restore accountability. Together, we can make Hamilton more affordable. Together, we can build a safer, stronger, more prosperous city.

Your Hamilton. Your Voice. Your Future.

Rob Cooper
Candidate for Mayor of Hamilton