Parma Mayor Tim DeGeeter begins new chapter of leadership in Ohio's seventh largest city

PARMA, Ohio - A new chapter of leadership has begun at Parma City Hall as Tim DeGeeter has taken over as mayor of Ohio's seventh largest city.

After talking with his family about the long days he would put in, he came to the decision that he would be the best candidate for the job.

DeGeeter has big plans for the community of over 80,000 residents.

"We definitely want to focus on economic development, with jobs," DeGeeter said. "We want to be able to retain the jobs we have here in Parma and build out our business community."

His first challenge as Parma's 14th mayor was thrust upon him his very first day in office.

Macy's department store announced they were closing the Parmatown Mall location. While the mall is currently in receivership, the new mayor sees redevelopment potential, similar to what was done at Westgate and Avon Commons.

"I think there's a marketplace. People will come and shop and eat there."

DeGeeter's interest in politics can be traced back to his upbringing near South Bend, Indiana.  Adopted at birth, Tim's parents shared their excitement with the world about their new son.

"When my parents went to pick me up, my dad was handing out cigars to the toll booth workers saying he is picking up his son."

Tim learned about hard work from his parents. He also admires the leadership qualities of President John F. Kennedy.

DeGeeter understands the important connection between schools and community when it comes to attracting new families to the city. He also wants Parma to be a driving force behind regional collaboration, both where it can improve services for one or more communities but also where it can save money and create more efficiencies.

For DeGeeter, however, his favorite title will always be that of dad.

"It's them (his children Jack and Molly), waking up everyday, I want them to live in a great community, so they are also a motivating factor to work hard and move Parma forward," said DeGeeter.