At-Large Candidates Show Their Hand in Property Code Debate

By Logan Andrew | FreeWire

The March 10th International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) meeting wasn’t just another bureaucratic exercise—it was a window into how some of Bucyrus’ at-large candidates govern. With James Mee chairing the meeting and Clarissa Slater and Ray Thitoff joining as new committee members, three of the four at-large candidates (Mee, Slater, and Thitoff) had a chance to demonstrate their approach to policy, deliberation, and collaboration. Robert Taylor, the fourth at-large candidate, was not part of the meeting but remains a significant figure in this race.

Slater, Thitoff, and Adam Frizzell were appointed to fill vacancies left by Carolyn Shireman and Greg White. White, known for his vocal critiques of council, resigned in protest after Slater was added to the committee—claiming, in his mind, that she was replacing Shireman, despite that not being the explicit intent. His departure led to Frizzell’s appointment, rounding out the committee’s new composition.

Slater and the Shireman Shadow

One of the more interesting political narratives at play is the perception of Clarissa Slater as the heir apparent to Carolyn Shireman, a comparison that some voters find unfair, while others find inevitable. Like Shireman, Slater is outspoken, unafraid to challenge established norms, and often takes a more aggressive stance in discussions. But unlike Shireman, Slater’s defenders argue, she is not reckless or destructive—just passionate.

Slater’s performance in the IPMC meeting reflected this balance. She took a strong stance on ensuring that both landlords and tenants are held accountable for property maintenance issues. Citing conversations with Adult Protective Services and Job and Family Services, she highlighted the struggles of vulnerable tenants who find themselves trapped in unsafe housing with limited options for recourse. She pressed for stronger penalties on landlords who allow properties to deteriorate, while also recognizing that tenants bear responsibility for damage they cause.

Her advocacy for at-risk residents was both praised and scrutinized. Critics see her approach as overly regulatory, while supporters see it as a necessary correction to a system that too often allows landlords to escape accountability.

Thitoff and Mee: Governance in Real Time

Ray Thitoff, another at-large candidate, approached the discussion with a more methodical mindset. He focused on ensuring that new legislation is actually enforceable, a concern that loomed large over the entire meeting. The IPMC, in its 2024 iteration, was deemed largely unenforceable in Bucyrus, leading to the decision to develop a local version. Thitoff emphasized transparency, advocating for clear documentation on why certain provisions were included or removed. His goal appeared to be streamlining government functions rather than expanding them.

Meanwhile, James Mee, who currently represents Ward 4 but is seeking an at-large seat, demonstrated his role as chair by keeping the conversation on track. Mee showed pragmatism, focusing on setting timelines for reviewing the 2024 IPMC, while also mediating between differing perspectives, particularly on enforcement and tenant protections. His governance style was less about making bold ideological statements and more about ensuring the process moved forward effectively.

Taylor: No-Nonsense, For Better or Worse

Robert Taylor, though absent from the meeting, remains an influential candidate in the at-large race. With a strong social media following, Taylor has cultivated a reputation for direct, no-nonsense communication—a quality some voters find refreshing in contrast to more traditional politicians. His "say what you mean" approach resonates with those tired of political doublespeak. However, critics argue that his rhetoric leans into “Trumpian tactics,” suggesting that Bucyrus has already seen enough of that style of governance. Whether his approach translates into effective leadership or unnecessary division remains a major question in the at-large race.

A Preview of the At-Large Race

While this was just one committee meeting, the dynamics reflect how voters might see their choices in the May primary:

• Clarissa Slater: The passionate advocate for tenant protections and vulnerable residents, though she faces the challenge of distinguishing herself from Shireman’s legacy.
• Ray Thitoff: The methodical, transparency-focused candidate who wants legislation that is enforceable and practical.
• James Mee: The steady-handed leader who aims for effective governance rather than ideological battles.
• Robert Taylor: The blunt, social-media-savvy candidate whose no-nonsense style excites some and concerns others.

For voters, this meeting wasn't just about property maintenance codes—it was a glimpse into how these candidates would govern if elected. And with Slater still working against the perception that she is a different version of Carolyn Shireman, she will need to ensure that her strong-willed approach is seen as constructive, not disruptive.

If nothing else, the meeting reinforced what Bucyrus voters already know: this election season, every council seat matters.