BATAVIA, OHIO — September 28, 2026 — C. Scott Runck has announced his retirement from the office of Mayor of the Village of Batavia, effective September 28, 2026, at noon, concluding nearly three decades of public service to the Batavia community.
Runck was first elected to Batavia Village Council in 1999, where he served for six years. He then served 16 years on the Batavia Local School Board before returning to Village Council in 2021. In 2023, he was elected Mayor of the Village of Batavia.
Throughout his years of public service, Runck has maintained a strong commitment to the community and its residents.
“Serving this community has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Runck said. “I am deeply grateful to the residents of Batavia for allowing me to serve and for entrusting me with the responsibility of helping lead our village.”
Runck’s community involvement has extended well beyond his elected positions. He has spent countless hours supporting Batavia’s schools, children, families, and community organizations.
For generations of Batavia students, he became known as “the hat guy,” regularly visiting the elementary school, talking with students, reading to them, and participating in school activities. He has also brought the characters of Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, the Cat in the Hat, and the Polar Express Conductor to community events and school activities.
During his tenure as mayor, Runck has been part of a period of continued development and investment in Batavia. Among the projects and initiatives moving forward are the upcoming Casey’s, development of the Riverwalk, new residential development, expanded park opportunities, and continued efforts toward bringing a grocery store to the community.
The village has also continued improvements to Main Street, its parks and historic cemeteries, and relationships with the Batavia Local School District and Clermont College, while supporting the Central Joint Fire and EMS District and welcoming new businesses to the community.
“The past few years have brought their share of challenges, but they have also reminded me of the importance of perseverance, collaboration, and keeping our focus on the people and future of Batavia,” Runck said. “Despite those challenges, our village has continued to move forward, and I am proud of what we have accomplished together.”
Confidence in the Next Chapter
As Runck prepares to leave office, he has expressed his full confidence in Vice Mayor Steve Staton, who will step into the role of mayor.
“I have immense faith and trust in our Council and in our incoming mayor, Steve Staton,” Runck said. “I believe they are passionate about ensuring that the future of the Village of Batavia remains bright.”
Runck is encouraging residents to continue supporting Staton and the members of Village Council as they assume responsibility for guiding the community forward.
“They are dedicated, caring citizens who have chosen to give back to their community by serving as your representatives,” Runck said. “Their success is Batavia’s success.”
Runck also encouraged residents, particularly members of the younger generation, to become involved in the community and consider public service.
“Strong communities benefit from leaders with different experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds,” Runck said. “I sincerely hope that members of the younger generation will step forward to serve and help shape the next chapter of our village.”
After nearly three decades of public service, Runck said he leaves office with gratitude for the opportunity to serve and optimism about Batavia’s future.
“Batavia has a remarkable history, but its story is not finished,” Runck said. “I am confident that our village’s best chapters are still ahead.”
The Village of Batavia thanks C. Scott Runck for nearly three decades of service to the community and wishes him well as he begins the next chapter of his life.
About C. Scott Runck
C. Scott Runck has dedicated nearly three decades to public service in Batavia. His service includes six years on Batavia Village Council, 16 years on the Batavia Local School Board, and nearly three years as Mayor of the Village of Batavia.
Beyond elected office, Runck has been deeply involved in Batavia’s schools and community, dedicating thousands of hours to students, families, civic activities, and community events.
His legacy includes not only his years of public service, but the personal relationships he has built with generations of Batavia residents.