Dan Mathieson won't seek re-election as Stratford's mayor

Stratford mayor not seeking re-election From CTV Kitchener’s Jeff Pickel: Stratford Mayor Dan Mathieson won’t seek re-election in 2022.

STRATFORD — Stratford Mayor Dan Mathieson says he won't seek re-election in 2022.

Mathieson was first elected to council in 1995 and served two terms as deputy mayor before he was elected mayor in 2003.

Mathieson tweeted about his decision not to run again last week.

"I have enjoyed the honour/privilege bestowed upon me by the citizens," his tweet said in part.

Mathieson said his love of the city comes from its people and its unique identity as a rural community with a thriving arts scene.

"It's a really dynamic community," he said. "It's industry and arts combined."

Mathieson said one key to his success was proving that all sectors are important.

"What's challenging is to bring all those dynamic interests together in a cohesive vision over a lot of years to make sure that no sector of the economy gets left behind," he said.

Other high points included increased growth of the Stratford Festival, bringing GO transit to Stratford and clearing a path for the redevelopment of the Cooper site. Another staple of Mathieson's tenure is Market Square, a former bus terminal that has become a focal point of the community.

He also saw controversy, including public outcry over the proposed Xinyi Glass Plant, which saw protesters gather outside of city hall.

A third-party investigator ruled the city did violate rules about holding closed-door meetings and the group that opposed the glass plant continues to investigate.

Mathieson said new leadership is needed to draft a new city master plan in 2022.

"As time goes on, you need new voices at the table, you need new leadership, you need new opportunities," he said.

Mathieson said he still wants to be part of the city he grew up in once he leaves the position of mayor behind.