As 2022 comes to a close, I wanted to take some time to reflect on the interesting time that has occurred since I took office in July as the City of Tiffin’s 50th Mayor and first female mayor in our city’s 200 years.
They always say there is a first time for everything – well, I’ve been compiling quite the list for things I’ve never done before taking on this job.
This city is blessed to have an outstanding leadership team and staff. Our department heads are like one big family – watching out for each other, helping where they can while throwing in a little teasing. (Just like any family!) I see this first hand every day, and I am proud of each of them and every one of our staff members. The City of Tiffin 2023 budget discussions ran smoothly and union contracts were signed and completed in a timely manner because we all work together for the benefit of our citizens.
Meanwhile, we are also blessed to have so many great relationships with the hard-working teams at Tiffin-Seneca Economic Partnership, the Seneca Regional Chamber of Commerce and Destination Seneca County, as well as with the elected officials in Seneca County and Fostoria. I constantly hear from people in other parts of the state how rare it is for all of these different entities to work together, but we do it because it’s the right thing and it brings our community together. A perfect example of this is that I just received word that the Tiffin Developmental Center will no longer be able to host the annual Halloween parade. It only took one call to the Chamber for them to step up and offer to host it next year. We will work together to coordinate the parade in downtown Tiffin, and perhaps include other spooky season events.
When I submitted my nomination to City Council in July for the Mayor’s seat, I said my intention was not to run for re-election for the term starting in 2024. Since then, I’ve had so many people ask me if I’d reconsidered. I want to be clear, I have loved these past few months and am touched and honored by the outpouring of support and kind words I have received since taking office, but I am sticking true to my word and will not be seeking re-election. So many great things continue to happen in and around Tiffin. I look forward to embracing my final year ahead and I cannot wait to see my next adventures in 2023!!!
Happy New Year’s wishes to all of you!
– Mayor Dawn Iannantuono