I had the opportunity to attend the League of Women Voters Candidate Forum on October 8, hosting all candidates competing for Perrysburg elective offices.
With such a large number of candidates answering questions, it was surprising that only one candidate would attack his opponent in a manner inconsistent with the spirit and rules of the event. It could have set a very combative tone when, in response to the first question, Mayor Mike Olmstead accused the other candidate, Tom Mackin, of serving the interests of the city of Toledo first. It was refreshing that Mr. Mackin did not respond in kind with an attack of his own.
Mr. Olmstead also bragged of his combative style with negotiation over water with the city of Toledo, and many of the current city council member mentioned, in their responses, how they are often need to “stand up to” Mayor Olmstead. These are not the traits of someone who wishes to build consensus in decision making or can take the point of view of others to come to a mutually beneficial outcome.
It is also ironic, that in his attack accusing Mr. Mackin not intending to serve the best interests of Perrysburg, it is Mike Olmstead who has a record of not serving the best interests of the citizens of Perrysburg. Mayor Olmstead owes unpaid taxes to the IRS, the State of Ohio, and Perrysburg. Compounding this, Mr. Olmstead has refused to live up to his own agreement to pay what he owes, instead forcing the garnishment of his mayoral wages to pay his tax debts. In fact, Perrysburg taxpayers are the ones paying the taxes and penalties of the current Mayor, Mike Olmstead. This is definitely not in the best interests of the citizens of Perrysburg.
The non-voluntary payment of Perrysburg Schools taxes, in addition to state and federal taxes Mayor Olmstead owes, is clear evidence that he does not care about anyone but himself and his own checkbook. Mike Olmstead’s own behavior shows he does not believe the rules that apply to us also apply to him.
John Lazor
