TOLEDO, Ohio — Toledo Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz announced Wednesday his intention to run for a third term, following the passage of Issue 9 Tuesday, which amends the city charter to extend the term limits for the office of mayor.
The measure passed with 50,467 votes in favor and 40,677 votes against, according to unofficial and uncertified results from the Lucas County Board of Elections.
In a written statement, Kapszukiewicz commented on a deeply divided American electorate and what he described as a lack of "consensus in America today about the path forward."
Kapszukiewicz contrasted this divide with what he said was a level of unity in the city of Toledo. He cited a reduction in crime, infrastructural work and economic growth as reasons he said voters chose to approve the amendment.
"By voting overwhelmingly for Issue 9, the voters sent a signal that they believe Toledo is making real progress and heading in the right direction," Kapszukiewicz said in the announcement. "At a time when voters at the national level opted for change, in Toledo they validated our efforts by seeking stability and consistency."
The Mayor said a formal announcement of his decision to run for a third term would come later. He said the third term would be his last, in line with the parameters of the charter amendment.
"By now, Toledoans know what I am, and what I am not. I am not loud, flashy or bombastic. But I am calm, steady and thoughtful – and my approach has gotten results for the city I love," he wrote.
Previously, the mayor of Toledo was limited to serving two consecutive four-year terms. With the passage of Issue 9, the mayor can now serve up to three consecutive four-year terms. Proponents of the measure argued that the change would provide continuity and stability in city leadership, allowing mayors to see long-term projects through to completion.
Opponents, however, expressed concerns about the potential for entrenchment in office and the reduction of opportunities for new leadership.
Kapszukiewicz was first elected mayor of Toledo on Nov. 7, 2017, then later reelected on Nov. 2, 2021.