Hello Worthington! Here's your recap of what happened at the Monday, January 5, 2026 City Council meeting. The meeting began with new council members being sworn in and transitioned into regular business covering community support and board appointments.
Historic Night: New Council Members Sworn In
Monday's organizational meeting marked a milestone in Worthington history as Joycelyn Dong and Maria Ramirez became the first council members of color to serve on City Council. Dong is the first Asian American elected to the body, while Ramirez is the first Latina.
Rachael Dorothy was unanimously elected Council President, with Rebecca Hermann as President Pro Tem. Mayor Scott Holmes begins his seventh term, and Joseph Mas continues as Vice Mayor.
Council to Propose Immigration Support Resolution
In their first council reports, Dong and Ramirez announced plans to introduce a resolution affirming Worthington's support for immigrant residents amid ICE activity in Central Ohio. All seven council members expressed support for the initiative, with a vote expected at the Monday, January 12 meeting.
Stay connected to what's happening in Worthington, Ohio.
In Other News
New Restaurant Coming to Former Natalie's Space: Council approved an Economic Development Transfer ("TREX") liquor permit for "The Nine," a new restaurant and bar going into the basement space formerly known as The Light of Seven Matchsticks at 5601 N. High St. Hours will be Tuesday–Thursday 4–11 p.m. and Friday–Saturday 4 p.m.–midnight. Meanwhile, Fired Up Pizza—a Worthington Farmers Market vendor—is opening their first brick-and-mortar location in the upstairs space.
Council Appoints Members to Key Boards: Maria Ramirez joins MORPC and the McConnell Arts Center Board. Joycelyn Dong joins the Worthington Partnership Board. Glen Pratt joins the CIC. Amy Lloyd becomes the School Board Liaison.
Joint City-School Board Meetings Proposed: Council Member Amy Lloyd proposed establishing regular joint meetings with the Worthington School Board, inspired by Kettering's longstanding practice. A first meeting could happen as early as March.
Worthington Together Update: The comprehensive plan survey closed December 19th. The Community Committee meets Wednesday, January 15th to review survey data. The public may attend as observers.
Key Upcoming Dates
- Friday, January 9: CIC Meeting at 8:30 a.m.
- Monday, January 12: City Council meeting—immigration support resolution expected
- Wednesday, January 15: Worthington Together Community Committee meeting
Thanks for reading this summary of the City Council meeting. You can watch the full video on the City of Worthington's website.