Former school leader seeks seat on city commission

Tom Tucker answering a call

SANDUSKY —

Tom Tucker, a longtime civic volunteer and retired school administrator, is seeking his first elected office as a candidate for Sandusky City Commission.

Tucker, 69, served as assistant superintendent and later superintendent of Sandusky City Schools from 2008 to 2012. Since retiring, he’s remained active in community service, including time on the Firelands Symphony board, the local mental health board, and the city’s Blue Ribbon Commission on tax structure.

“I’ve always been community-activated,” Tucker said. “Some people approached me and said, ‘We think you can contribute,’ and after some conversations, I decided to run.”

Tucker and his wife, Dianne, have been married for 47 years.

Tucker said he wants to help the city continue the momentum built under current leadership. With commissioners Dennis Murray and Dick Brady term-limited, Tucker said experience and continuity will matter.

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Q&A with Tom Tucker

Why are you running for City Commission?
I've served on a lot of committees over the years — mental health, symphony, Rotary — and I’ve been active in the community. After some encouragement from people who felt I could contribute, I decided to take the next step.

Is this your first time running for elected office?
Yes. I've always worked in education, but never held elected office.

What do you see as the top priorities for the next commission term?
There are a lot of projects already in motion—Landing Park, Battery Park, the Rec Center, improvements to neighborhood parks. Continuing that progress and maintaining financial stability are key. Affordable housing will also be an important issue.