Theaker sworn in for second term as Mansfield mayor

MANSFIELD -- Mayor Tim Theaker already is looking ahead to the next four years.

Theaker was sworn in Monday in Mansfield City Council chambers for a second term. He won by a comfortable margin over Democratic challenger Ron Abrams in the general election.

"I want to thank all the citizens of Mansfield. They saw that we were very successful," Theaker said. "The next four years, we will work very hard to make this the best city in Ohio."

Theaker said he hopes to continue to attract and grow businesses. The Republican also said he wants to make the city safer by adding to the police and fire departments. Another goal is reducing blight.

"I think we've done an awful lot," Theaker said. "We were in fiscal emergency. Unemployment was high."

The Rev. Derek Williams, pastor at Mount Calvary Baptist Church, opened Monday's brief ceremony with a prayer.

State Rep. Mark Romanchuk was on hand to swear in Theaker, who joked he initially tried to get Congressmen Bob Gibbs and Pat Tiberi.

Theaker's wife, Ann, brought a Bible from home for the occasion.

Dressed in a gray suit and a red tie, the mayor kidded Romanchuk about the oath.

"I don't remember it being that long four years ago," Theaker said.

Romanchuk told those gathered in council chambers that he looks forward to the next four years.

Theaker does, too.

"We just need to continue on, and we will," the mayor said.

mcaudill@gannett.com

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Twitter: @MNJCaudill