Councilman Steve Lepard announces resignation

Tiffin, Ohio — Longtime Tiffin City Councilman Steve Lepard announced his retirement during a council meeting held on Monday evening.

Effective Friday, May 19, Lepard will step down from his position. His resignation was confirmed through a letter read aloud by Clerk of Council Ann Forrest.

Expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to serve the city of Tiffin, Lepard wrote, “It has truly been my pleasure to serve the city of Tiffin for more than 19 years. During this time, I have made many friendships that will be life-lasting.”

Lepard, who represents the First Ward, was appointed to the role in 2022 by the Seneca County Republican Central Committee. Previously, he served as an at-large councilmember from 2014 to 2021, having been elected twice for the position. Prior to that, he held the First Ward councilmember position from 2002 to 2011 for two consecutive terms.

Mayor Dawn Iannantuono commended Lepard for his extensive knowledge and leadership during the meeting, stating, “I am going to greatly miss your knowledge and leadership, and you’ve been a great asset to the city of Tiffin. You will be greatly missed.”

As Lepard’s departure creates a vacancy in the First Ward seat, the responsibility of filling the position falls upon the Seneca County Republican Central Committee, given Lepard’s affiliation with the Republican Party. The unexpired term concludes on December 31, 2023.