
Meet the Candidates
This year, we have five candidates competing for three positions. Learn more about each candidate through their bio and candidate videos below. Results will be announced at our AGM on March 4, 2026.
Kurt Richard
Kudo Energy Services Inc.
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Elisa Brosseau
Mayor, Town of Bonnyville
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Brian Hamilton
Owner, Hamilton House Bed & Breakfast Inn
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Chris Vining
Principal, Cold Lake Elementary School and Councillor, City of Cold Lake
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Mark Power
Mark L. Power & Associates Ltd.
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Elisa is known for building high-performing organizations through clear strategy, strong governance, and collaborative leadership. She holds a Bachelor of Human Resource and Labour Relations from Athabasca University and an Advanced Certificate in Leadership from the University of Alberta. Bilingual in French and English, Elisa is a respected public speaker and community leader with strong connections across municipal, provincial, nonprofit, and industry sectors. Her leadership approach emphasizes accountability, transparency, and long-term organizational sustainability.
Employment History: Elisa is a dynamic executive leader with extensive experience in municipal governance, public administration, and board leadership. She is currently serving as Mayor of the Town of Bonnyville, a role she has held since 2021, overseeing a municipal operation of approximately 75 employees and a $31 million operating budget. Prior to becoming Mayor, Elisa served as a Town Councilor from 2017 to 2021. In addition to her elected roles, she serves as a board member and Vice-Chair of Lakeland Credit Union and as an appointed board member of Portage College. Her work spans strategic planning, financial oversight, governance, intergovernmental relations, and economic development.
Employment History: Brian Hamilton is an experienced entrepreneur and public service professional with a career spanning design, construction, property management, and hospitality. He owned and operated a Design and Construction firm (1979–1988), providing custom residential, commercial, and institutional projects, and worked in real estate in the Lakeland region.
From 1988 to 2013, Brian served with the Department of National Defense at 4 Wing Cold Lake, including Architectural designer for renovations and new construction and Operations Manager for the Canadian Forces Housing Agency, overseeing property and project management for thousands of family housing units across Canada. He earned Applied Science certification from ASET and the Accredited Residential Manager (ARM) designation.
Brian and his wife also operate the Hamilton House Bed and Breakfast Inn, offering accommodations, conference facilities, and guided outdoor experiences, achieving provincial, national, and international recognition.
Chris is a servant leader with a passion for relationship building and working in both traditional and non-traditional environments. He holds a Master of Education in Leadership and School Improvement from the University of Alberta. A long-time resident of the Cold Lake region, Chris has dedicated his career to supporting students, families, and community-based organizations.
Employment History: Chris has an extensive career in education spanning over 33 years, including 27 years with Northern Lights School Division. He has served more than 20 years as a school principal, leading elementary, K–8, aviation-focused, and regional outreach schools across the Cold Lake region. His roles required oversight of staffing, budgeting, policy development, school operations, and community relations, with a strong focus on student success and organizational culture.
Volunteer History: City Councilor, City of Cold Lake (currently serving fourth term), Chair, Lakeland Lodge and Housing Foundation, Chair, Cold Lake Medical Municipally Controlled Corporation, Vice Chair, Cold Lake Regional Services Utility Commission, Founder and Head Coach, Cold Lake Volleyball Club and Former Head Coach, Grand Centre High School Royals Senior Boys Volleyball
Mark is recognized for his strong governance acumen and ability to lead complex public-sector organizations through change. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Alberta and has deep experience in municipal administration, budgeting, policy development, and stakeholder engagement. Throughout his career, Mark has worked closely with elected officials, senior leadership teams, and community stakeholders to deliver effective, accountable municipal services.
Employment History: Mark is a senior municipal executive with over 40 years of experience serving as a Chief Administrative Officer, City Manager, and municipal consultant across Alberta. His career includes leadership roles with the Town of Bonnyville, City of Cold Lake, Town of Cold Lake, Town of Lac La Biche, Town of Grand Centre, and Town of Barrhead. As President of Mark L. Power & Associates Ltd., Mark has provided contract CAO, CFO, and advisory services to municipalities, regional water commissions, and waste management commissions. His expertise includes governance, strategic planning, financial management, operational leadership, and organizational modernization.
Volunteer History: Tri-Town Museum / Cold Lake Museum Volunteer (1992–Present)
