About Mayor Sherer
Mayor William V. Sherer II was born on December 25, 1969, right here in Canton, Ohio.
A proud graduate of McKinley Senior High School and the Ironworkers Local 550 Apprenticeship Training Program, he began his career in 1989 as a member of Ironworkers Local 550, where he built a strong foundation as both a skilled tradesman and a leader.
CAREER FOUNDATIONS
Built From the Ground Up: A Career Forged in Steel and Service
Throughout his career, Mayor Sherer has held nearly every leadership role within the union, including Trustee, President, and Business Manager and Financial Secretary-Treasurer. He also served as Apprenticeship Coordinator, helping train and mentor the next generation of ironworkers while strengthening the program through accreditation and instruction.
In the field, he worked as a superintendent and general foreman, leading large-scale projects and managing crews of up to 100 workers. His leadership extended beyond the job site through regional roles and oversight of pension, health, and welfare programs supporting working families.
Community Leadership
A Hand in Every Corner of the Community
His commitment to service carried into public office. He served as Canton City Council President from 2018 to 2023 before being elected Mayor of the City of Canton, beginning his first term on January 1, 2024. He has also served in leadership roles with the Ohio Ironworkers Association, the Stark County Board of Elections, the Stark County Democratic Party, the J. Babe Stearn Community Center, and the United Way of Stark County.
First Term Accomplishments
Launched Canton's New Public Safety Center
Acquired the former AEP building to create a multijurisdictional Safety Center, giving Canton's police, fire, and safety partners the tools to coordinate with state and federal agencies and keep our neighborhoods secure.
Created the Mayor's Neighborhood Commission
Redirected city investment block by block, reaching 16 neighborhoods across all four quadrants of Canton and targeting at least two new neighborhoods for major investment every year.
Built a Career Pipeline for Canton Students
Partnered with Canton City Schools through the McKinley CTE Collaboration, turning classroom tours into real, paid pre-apprenticeship jobs for local students inside city departments.
Delivered Canton's Biggest Housing Push in 50 Years
Struck land swaps with Canton City Schools to clear blight and build new single-family homes, while partnering with developers and organizations like Habitat for Humanity to grow the city's housing supply.
Secured Over $39 Million to Rebuild Canton's Infrastructure
Balanced the city budget every year in office while aggressively pursuing state and federal grants, bringing millions back to Canton for roads, water lines, and safety projects without raising taxes.
Read About Key Issues & Progress
Personal Life
Rooted in Canton, Devoted to Family
Mayor Sherer is a lifelong resident of Canton and a dedicated family man. He and his wife, Carrie, are proud parents of three daughters, Nicolette, Julian, and Adrian, and loving grandparents to Henry and Ella.
Get Involved
Keep William V. Sherer II as Mayor of Canton
Keep the momentum going. Keep Canton moving forward. Keep William V. Sherer II as Mayor.