Steuk eager to still serve Huron

HURON — Judge Bill Steuk can effectively grant himself a continuance as the leader of Huron's municipal court, where he's served behind its bench for 15 years. Running unopposed in the Nov. 2 election, he's effectively guaranteed another six-year term in office, which starts in January 2022. Before then, however, Steuk answered some questions about his term and what goals he'd like to achieve in the next one: Q: Why you are running again Judge: It has been my privilege to serve as the Huron Municipal Court judge. I am honored to be only the fourth judge of this court. I have developed a strong relationship with this community and desire to continue the work in a highly professional and efficient manner. I have enjoyed working with so many individuals over the years. This certainly includes Huron city officials, law enforcement, attorneys and especially the citizens of Huron and Huron Township. I truly believe this court has made a positive impact on this community, and I wish to continue this endeavor. Q: Why did you first want to run? Judge: I first took office in July 2006, when former Judge Ralph Pisano, unfortunately, passed away. Public service has always been important to my family. My grandfather was a mayor and commissioner for the city of Sandusky. My father was very involved in our community and my mother still is today. They taught me that a good community depends on the active service of its citizens. Being the Huron Municipal Court judge has allowed me to be a public servant in my chosen profession. Q: What would you say are your three greatest achievements in office over this last term? Judge: Together, with our clerk of courts and the court staff, we have weathered the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This has allowed the court to continuously operate efficiently and effectively. We never closed our office and were always ready to serve our citizens accordingly. As with everyone, there were difficulties in managing through this pandemic, but getting through this while serving the public was certainly an achievement, and I am proud of our efforts. Keeping up with modern technology is extremely important. With the help of our IT official, we have upgraded our video conferencing technology from our previous system. The court has a direct video feed with the Erie County Jail. This enables the court to handle certain matters via video conferencing, which reduces the need for transporting inmates from the jail. I believe that I have maintained the high standards of the Huron Municipal Court. I believe that I conduct my courtroom the same way that I live my life and encourage my children to live their lives — with intelligence, compassion, integrity, perseverance, faith and optimism. I believe I have served the citizens well and plan to continue to do so as their Huron Municipal Court judge. Q: What would you say are your top three goals in office for your next term?. Judge: Maintain the high level of integrity, efficiency, and fiscal responsibility of the Huron Municipal Court. Maintain strong working relationships and open lines of communication with the city manager, city prosecutor, clerk of courts and her staff, the local bar and law enforcement. Continually look for innovative ways to strengthen my service and make myself and my courtroom available to the community.