After more than four decades of public service, North Canton Mayor Stephan Wilder is stepping down from his role, capping a career marked by dedication, leadership, and deep ties to the community.
Wilder, who first joined the North Canton Police Department in 1981 as an auxiliary officer, rose through the ranks to become the city’s tenth Chief of Police in 2010. He retired from the department in 2017 following a 36-year career in law enforcement defined by “integrity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to public safety,” the city said in a press release.
In 2019, Wilder returned to public life when he was elected mayor. His term began just months before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, presenting an early test of leadership. He guided North Canton through that critical period with “steady leadership and a deep sense of responsibility,” according to the city.
Wilder went on to serve two additional terms as mayor, ushering in what city officials described as “a legacy of progress, collaboration, and community connection.”
In a statement announcing his departure, Wilder reflected on key accomplishments during his tenure, including bolstering the local economy through partnerships with major institutions like Walsh University, Diebold-Nixdorf, and Meijer; supporting small business growth; securing an economic development agreement with Jackson Township; and backing the North Canton City Schools’ rebuilding efforts.
He also highlighted a “special initiative” supported by voters to sunset three property taxes, approve a 0.5% income tax, and accept a grant from the Hoover Foundation to help fund a new consolidated Fire/EMS facility. Wilder also noted the city’s receipt of the 2025 Distinguished Service Medal from Walsh University as a point of pride.
“Serving the people of North Canton has been an honor,” Wilder said. “I have most appreciated the trust you have placed in me to represent interests and contribute to our community’s progress.”
Wilder expressed gratitude to his colleagues and the community, and said he plans to spend more time with family and pursue personal interests. He also emphasized his commitment to a smooth transition and will work closely with City Council President Matthew Stroia, who will be sworn in as mayor on Friday, July 25, at 12 p.m. at City Hall.
Per the City Charter, Stroia, as council president, is next in line to fill a mayoral vacancy.
“The City of North Canton expresses its deepest gratitude to Mayor Wilder for his extraordinary contributions,” the city’s statement read. “Whether you know him as Officer Wilder, Chief Wilder, Mayor Wilder, or simply as Steve, a neighbor and friend, we thank him for his unwavering dedication and servant’s heart.”
