BRADENTON BEACH – Ralph Cole ended his 11-year tenure as a Bradenton Beach commissioner at the conclusion of the Nov. 5 commission meeting.
Cole began serving as commissioner in 2015. While in office, he was a staunch advocate for the undergrounding of city utility lines, and he was a watchdog for city spending.
In May 2026, Cole announced he would not run for re-election and he wanted to spend more time with his family.
During the Nov. 5 commission meeting, Mayor John Chappie said, “The city would like to recognize Ralph Cole for his many years of service to the city of Bradenton Beach. He’s served it with honor and dedication.”
Chappie presented Cole with the key to the city and a commemorative coin. Cole then received applause from the meeting attendees and the other commissioners.
After the meeting, Cole said he was most proud o f being part of the utility undergrounding initiative in the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) – the city agency he chaired for several years.
The Coles have a history of service to the Bradenton Beach community. Ralph Cole’s late father, Gail Cole, served as Bradenton Beach mayor from 1999 to 2001.
Because no one sought the Ward 3 seat during the recent city election, the commission will appoint someone to serve as the Ward 3 commissioner for the next two years.
After the meeting, Chappie said an individual has already expressed interest in filling Cole’s commission seat. Chappie declined to identify that individual.
