Working Together Matters

Election season is always a little intense in Worthington and this year feels especially so.  Drama seems to be everywhere.  But underneath all of that noise is something more important: what kind of community we want to be, and what kind of leadership we expect from those who represent us. No one speaks for all of Worthington. Our strength comes from debate, diversity of thought, and taking responsibility for our words and actions .  

Over the past two years, City Council has made meaningful progress on the priorities residents identified through our visioning process.  You can see our 2024-2025 Policy Agenda, and what's been accomplished, on the city's website.  These are not small things, and they didn’t happen by accident. They happened because most of Council, our professional staff, and dozens of community volunteers have worked hard to move Worthington forward.

That progress happens when leaders show up prepared, listen to one another, and find solutions even when they disagree. Worthington thrives when leaders work as partners, with each other, with staff, and with residents. What holds us back is not disagreement, but divisiveness. When personal attacks replace policy discussions, it’s our community that loses. 

Worthington deserves better than constant conflict. We deserve leaders who see public service as an opportunity to build, not divide; who understand that disagreeing respectfully is part of democracy, but obstruction and personal attacks are not.  Good leaders don’t confuse accountability with disrespect. 

Then & Now: Preparing for the Future Has Always Been a Worthington Value

Then: In 1803, Worthington’s founders didn’t simply settle here — they planned a community. James Kilbourne and the Scioto Company deliberately laid out a New England-style village with a town square, schools, and churches at its heart. Planning and preparation were part of Worthington’s DNA from the start.

Then: In 1893, the electric street railway connected Worthington to Columbus, sparking new opportunity and transforming a small village into a connected suburb. Infrastructure investment literally put Worthington on the map and opened the door to growth that lasted for generations.

Then: The mid-20th century brought another wave of change as I-270 and suburban expansion reshaped the region. Worthington grew rapidly and, importantly, adapted while holding onto its small-town character and sense of community.

Now: We’re at another turning point. Just as our founders planned for community and infrastructure, we must plan today for mobility, inclusivity, affordability, and resilience. Just as our city grew when transportation links and thoughtful subdivisions were built, we must now ensure our code, zoning, development review, and infrastructure keep pace with the future.

Looking Ahead

If we fail to prepare — to set policy, update our tools, attract appropriate development, invest in infrastructure, involve residents and adapt to change — we risk being the community that once was, rather than the one our children and grandchildren will thrive in.

So as we approach Election Day, I hope residents pay attention to what’s been accomplished, and to who shows up to do the work in good faith. Leadership is about character, collaboration, and commitment — not chaos.

With your vote you have the power to shape Worthington’s future — to choose leaders who will build on the progress we’ve made, who respect one another and the people who serve our city, and who bring ideas rather than obstruction. Our community deserves thoughtful growth, smart investment, and a spirit of innovation so we don’t fall behind while other communities around us evolve.  We are fortunate that some candidates have clearly stated their priorities and want a future with a stronger, more vibrant Worthington.

Every local election is decided by just a handful of votes. Your voice and your ballot matter — deeply. Please take the time to vote on Tuesday, November 4th, and encourage your friends and neighbors to do the same.