Over the past few days, I’ve heard from many of you—some in support, many offering critique, concern, or clarity. So let me set the record straight:
I hear you. And I value your input.
My intent was never to suggest that every “no” vote on the Street Levy fully supports every action Kurt Fankhauser has ever taken. From your responses, I see that’s the impression it gave. I understand why that felt dismissive, and I genuinely appreciate those who respectfully challenged me on it.
I also want to share why I may come across the way I do at times.
This past year has changed me. My involvement in City Hall, the Council, and the community has had a profoundly transformative impact on my life. I’ve grown—not just professionally, but personally. I transitioned from working full-time from home to working outside the home while raising two children, managing a household, and stepping into public office. I’ve spent the last year actively engaging with my community, listening, learning, and showing up—and it’s been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.
I’ve explained my “why” before. My children are my motivation. Becoming a mother made me fiercely protective—not just of them, but of everything I care about. That includes all of you: my neighbors, my city, and everyone in it. That protective instinct means I may sometimes come across stronger than I intend, especially when I sense a threat to the people or place I love. However, that fire stems from family-first values, faith, and a commitment to protecting what matters.
Progress takes grit, not grudges. And I still firmly believe that bad-faith politics are harming our city. I’ll continue to call that out. But I also recognize that many voters are simply trying to navigate rising costs, strained services, and unclear answers. Those frustrations are real, and I welcome them.
I didn’t run for office to be right all the time—I ran to serve. That means I’ll speak honestly, share my truth, and yes, listen when I need to. I’ll continue to fight for transparency, integrity, and solutions that reflect what Bucyrus families truly need.
So, thank you for the criticism, feedback, and reminders. They keep me grounded. They keep me honest.
I’m not above getting the perspective wrong or missing the big picture. But I ask this:
We can’t pave the future of Bucyrus if we’re too busy picking at the pavement.
And before you tear down the Street Levy, ask yourself—are you protecting the city, or doing the work of someone who benefits from the wreckage?
Let’s lead with clarity. Let’s grow together. And let’s never lose sight of what we’re building toward. I promise to have more over this Easter weekend regarding the Levy, the city, and ideas to balance the budget. All of which, I respectfully ask for your feedback on.
Clarissa Elizabeth Scheffler-Slater/Candidate for Bucyrus City At-Large
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