BUCYRUS—In his annual State of the City address during Tuesday’s council meeting, Bucyrus Mayor Jeff Reser paid homage to the past and expressed optimism for the future of Bucyrus.
Reser acknowledged all those involved in the year-long celebration of Bucyrus’ 200th birthday. “ 2021 was a special year, and I was honored to be Mayor,” Reser said.
Reser reminded council of the bicentennial theme of “ community unity,” a theme he believes has become a way of life for the more than 12,000 citizens who live here. Reser touched on the continuing legacy projects, including the Norton Bi-Centennial Park to be located north of downtown at the former location of Freddie’s Restaurant.
Reser encouraged the continued efforts to improve the business district. Reser commended local businesses for their determination to weather the pandemic.
Reser asked council to form a committee to review the ODNR report prepared before the pandemic suggesting ways to add green space to the downtown district. Reser said the Washington Square Islands need some maintenance and efforts to continue to restore the tree canopy. Reser thanked the Cathcart family for their donation of 200 trees to kick the project off. The Trees will continue to be planted over the next two years. Diseased trees and stumps will need to be removed and pruning completed.
Reser shared the water expansion project’s success and thanked the County Commissioners for funding 80% of the project with ARPA funds. Reser plans to continue to seek funding sources through grants and other funding opportunities.
The Kiwanis club is going to reimburse the city to cover the costs of the much-anticipated splash park.
Reser told the council that as the city grows, Bucyrus must continue to train workers for available jobs and create spin-off plants in the area to support incoming industry.
As Bucyrus grows, Reser said that housing needs should be addressed.
Reser was pleased to report that income tax revenues for the Bucyrus have increased. Noting that 70% of the tax revenue goes to safety forces, Reser said plans for salary increases, pension considerations, and equipment replacement must be considered.
Rather than putting a tax increase on the ballot, Reser asked the council to consider not forgiving the total income tax paid by residents who live in Bucyrus but work in other towns. Reser said his research indicates that surrounding cities, with the exception of Tiffin, do not completely forgive the tax. Reser asked the council to reduce the credit and raise money without taxing voters. Reser said citizens who live here but work elsewhere enjoy the benefits of the city but do not contribute to its upkeep. He asked the matter be referred to the finance committee for review.
Reser held a moment of silence for those suffering in Ukraine fighting for their own democracy.
“ May God continue to bless Bucyrus,” Reser said.