Long-time municipal manager Mark Mills has announced he is running for a seat on Cobourg town council, citing decades of experience in local government and a desire to give back to the community he calls home.
Mills says Cobourg is more than just where he lives, describing it as a place where families grow, seniors retire, and local businesses help shape the town’s identity. As a father and grandfather, he says he is motivated by the future being built for the next generation.
He brings nearly 40 years of senior management experience with municipalities of varying sizes, including the City of Toronto, Northumberland County, the Municipality of Port Hope, and Hamilton Township. Mills says that background has given him a strong understanding of budgeting, infrastructure planning, and service delivery, as well as the real-world impact municipal decisions have on residents.
Mills also served on Cobourg’s Budget Task Force, where recommendations for the 2026 budget focused on fiscal responsibility, transparency, and long-term sustainability. He says affordability remains a key concern as residents face rising costs.
Responsible growth is another pillar of his campaign. Mills says development should be planned carefully to ensure infrastructure keeps pace, housing remains attainable, and Cobourg’s character is respected. He also emphasizes support for local businesses as a driver of a strong local economy.
Mills says he intends to campaign by engaging directly with residents, listening to concerns, and promoting evidence-based decision-making. He is asking voters for their trust and support in the upcoming municipal election.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
