Tensions rise as residents demand accountability over city finances, council approves a pay raise, and a major property donation gets rejected.

By Logan Andrew | Editor-in-chief, FreeWire

5 min read

The Bucyrus City Council held its regular meeting on February 18, 2025, addressing key issues including financial concerns, property acquisition, and community feedback.

Public Participation and Concerns

During the public comment session, local residents voiced strong concerns about the city’s finances and governance. Greg White criticized the finance committee and its chairman, Kevin Myers, alleging that the recent town hall was a “dog and pony show” rather than a meaningful public discussion. White accused city officials of knowing about the water fund deficit prior to December 17, 2024, and called for multiple resignations, including Mayor Bruce Truka, the city auditor Kali Lewis, and members of the finance committee. He also demanded an independent state investigation into city finances.

Robert Taylor echoed dissatisfaction with the town hall and raised questions regarding the EMS service and funding challenges. He relayed information from State Representative Riordan McClain, who said recovering out-of-town tax revenue would be an “uphill battle” due to political barriers in larger cities. Taylor suggested eliminating the out-of-town tax credit as a short-term solution to budget shortfalls.

Logan Andrew, representing FreeWire, clarified that a recent article on the water fund was not meant to assign blame but rather to highlight a systemic problem dating back to 1977. He announced a follow-up article delving deeper into the history of Bucyrus’ water infrastructure and funding.

Supposed Town Hall Meeting Turns into a Slowplayed Admission of Water Fund Mismanagement

Citizens Plea for Accountability and Transparency in Local Government

medium.com

Auditor’s Report Highlights Water Fund Deficit

Lewis reported that income tax collections had dropped by 11% ($73,345) from the previous year, contributing to the city’s ongoing financial struggles. She addressed concerns about an alleged $599,000 discrepancy in water usage revenue raised by candidate Clarissa Slater, clarifying that no accounting errors were found. Instead, Slater had identified an alternative billing structure that could potentially increase city revenue.

Lewis also responded to claims that council members were misled about the severity of the water fund shortfall. She stood by her previous reports and emphasized that officials were not aware of the full extent of the issue when initial budget discussions took place. The Waterworks Fund deficit remains a critical challenge, and further discussions have been referred to the Finance & Service Committees for potential solutions.

Committee Reports and Legislative Actions

The council proceeded with committee updates and legislative business:

• Finance & Service Committees will further discuss the Waterworks Fund crisis, following Auditor Kali Lewis’ report that income tax collections had dropped by 11% ($73,345) from the previous year.
• Law Director Brandon Gobrecht proposed a criminal ordinance package to allow Bucyrus to prosecute minor offenses under local ordinances, ensuring the city retains more fine revenue.
• Council approved multiple ordinances and resolutions, including a sidewalk maintenance policy update, an auditor’s role on the Board of Control, and pay adjustments for the council clerk.
• A Bratwurst Festival street closure resolution and medical marijuana regulations were given second readings and will be revisited in upcoming meetings.

Council Clerk Receives Pay Raise

Council passed a resolution to increase the Bucyrus Council Clerk’s hourly wage to $25.25 per hour, including overtime pay at time-and-a-half when authorized by the council president. The raise will be applied retroactively to January 1, 2025. The motion passed despite some opposition, with Councilwoman Dishon voting against it.

YMCA Property Donation Rejected

A major point of contention was the proposed donation of the YMCA building to the city. While supporters argued that accepting the property would allow Bucyrus to seek grants for redevelopment, opponents expressed concerns about ongoing maintenance costs, insurance, and a lack of a financial plan.

Council members debated the potential use of the property for Fire Department expansion versus selling it for revenue. Without a clear strategy, the council voted 4–2 against accepting the donation, citing financial risks and uncertainties.

Final Notes and Adjournment

Council members denied excusing Councilwoman Shireman’s absence from the meeting, and a formal motion was made to ensure proper record-keeping for council absences and salary deductions.

With pressing budgetary concerns and infrastructure challenges, the Bucyrus City Council faces continued scrutiny from both the public and local media. Future meetings will likely focus on the water fund deficit, economic development, and potential financial solutions for the city’s growing fiscal issues.

🚘 For Sale: 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD Custom 🚘

• 36,000 miles
• 6.6L V8 gas engine
• 1 owner, clean Carfax
• Priced $2,000 below average KBB listing!

🔥 FreeWire Exclusive Perk! If you tell Birdie FreeWire sent you, take advantage of free details for a year when you stop in for an oil change! 🔥

📞 Contact: Birdie Baum — Sales & Leasing Consultant
📍 Chevrolet Buick of Bucyrus
📞 Office: 419–562–5806 | Cell: 419–569–8221