Hello Worthington! Here's your recap of what happened at the Monday February 2, 2026 City Council meeting. Below are brief summaries of the most significant discussions. For those interested in the full details, we've included links to longer articles where appropriate.
Officer Steve Early Honored Upon Retirement
The council chamber was packed with officers, firefighters, and staff as the city recognized Officer Steve Early's retirement after 36 years with Worthington Police and more than 45 years in law enforcement. Early, who was twice named Worthington Police Officer of the Year, served as the city's first security officer attending every council and board meeting since 2018. Mayor Holmes presented a proclamation, and colleagues shared heartfelt tributes to a man who "would do this job for free."
Council Approves $76,000 Expansion for Worthington Together
City Council unanimously approved additional funding for the Worthington Together comprehensive plan process, citing community requests for more engagement opportunities. The expansion covers an extended speaker series, additional community meetings, and more time with the citizen advisory committee. Two residents spoke against the amendment, criticizing the planning process and questioning whether additional funding was warranted. Council members defended the investment as necessary to ensure broad community input on the city's future.
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Council Reports Cover Immigration Support, Historic Landmark, and Meeting Civility
During council reports, members covered several community matters. A council member expressed support for Haitian neighbors under Temporary Protected Status. Another council member announced that the Gardner House at Flint Union Cemetery has been designated a National Park Service "Network to Freedom" site — only the second Underground Railroad landmark in central Ohio. Council members also discussed the need for civility guidelines at public meetings following concerning comments at a recent planning commission meeting.
Executive Session Held on Legal and Personnel Matters
Following the public portion of the meeting, City Council voted to enter a private executive session that lasted approximately 43 minutes. City Manager Robyn Stewart requested the closed session for two purposes: to discuss the appointment of public officials and to conference with the city attorney regarding disputes involving the city that are the subject of pending or imminent court action. Council reconvened in public session only to adjourn, with no votes taken or announcements made following the closed session.
In Other News
Bicycle and Pedestrian Improvements Funded: Council approved Ordinance 02-2026, authorizing funding for bicycle and pedestrian improvement projects previously presented by the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board last month. The ordinance passed unanimously.
Wellness Business Receives FACE Award for High Street Renovation: Council approved a $25,000 FACE Program award (half grant, half zero-interest loan) to Alluvita Social Wellness for exterior improvements to the property at 5721 North High Street, just south of Old Worthington. The total project investment is approximately $250,000, with improvements including a new roof, dormers, siding repairs, and updated landscaping. The women's wellness business, which offers recovery services, fitness, and spa treatments, plans to open at the location this summer.
Architectural Review Board Appointment: Ben Niebauer, a registered architect who has practiced primarily in higher education work, was appointed to the Architectural Review Board. Council members noted his longtime residence in the greater Worthington community.
Key Upcoming Dates
- Late February: Grand opening and tours expected for the newly renovated Gardner House at Flint Union Cemetery
- Ongoing: Community engagement continues at WorthingtonTogether.org for the comprehensive plan process
Thanks for reading this summary of the City Council meeting. You can watch the original full video here.