Hello Worthington! Here's your recap of what happened at the November 17th 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.
2026 Budget Review: Strategic Investments Despite Projected Deficits
City Council conducted its final review of the 2026 operating budget before voting on December 1st. Finance Director Scott Bartter outlined a projected $2.2 million deficit for 2026, emphasizing this is largely driven by one-time strategic investments—including $1.7 million for capital projects and a new fire engine—rather than structural fiscal problems. The budget also includes funding for housing strategies, economic development consulting, and code updates. Council unanimously agreed to provide an additional $5,000 to the Veterans Alliance and will consider updating City Council compensation for the first time since 2017.
Wolf's Ridge Brewing to Reopen Worthington Inn by Spring 2026
The historic Worthington Inn is set for new life under Wolf's Ridge Brewing, with a target opening by late spring 2026. The new restaurant, to be called "Wolf's Ridge at Worthington Inn," will feature seasonal, elevated tavern-style fare. The building is now owned by 1831 Ventures, LLC, a group with deep Worthington ties. Council members also thanked the Showe family for their decades of stewardship before passing the baton to new operators.
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Council Addresses Concerns About Comprehensive Plan Engagement
Multiple council members addressed concerns about the Worthington Together community meeting held the previous Wednesday, which drew over 200 residents. Councilmember Amy Lloyd and President Pro Tem Beth Kowalczyk reported that unofficial maps were placed on discussion tables, creating confusion during the feedback process. Council leaders reinforced that official materials come only from the city, consultant team, and appointed community committee, and encouraged residents to participate through formal channels.
In Other News
Worthington Partnership Leadership: Sean Kessler began as the new executive director of the Worthington Partnership on November 17th. A Worthington resident, Kessler fills a key leadership role in the business community organization.
Cologix Data Center Public Hearing: Council held a required public hearing on adding Cologix, a data center company, to the Orange Township Joint Economic Development District (JEDD). The project would construct up to 135,000 square feet on 28 acres at Green Meadows and Home Road, generating an estimated $2.5–$3 million in annual payroll with Worthington receiving 25% of income tax collections. No public comments were received; formal legislation comes December 1st.
Bond Reimbursement Resolution: Council approved Resolution 44-2025 allowing the city to reimburse itself for early expenses on the Northbrook Relief Sewer and Karen Avenue Waterline projects once bonds are issued. City Manager Robyn Stewart explained that consolidating multiple projects into single bond issuances saves on administrative and legal costs.
Budget Transfers: Resolution 45-2025 transferred funds between budget line items without increasing overall appropriations. Finance Director Bartter noted this is the third such transfer of the year, with the largest shift moving funding from a vacant position to contractual services filling that role.
Development Projects: Two promising projects were tabled at last Thursday's ARB/MPC meeting: a medical practice on Wilson Bridge Road (Bridgewell Commons) is receiving extra support as first-time developers navigate the process, and Mrs. Goodman's Bakery at 1012 High Street. Both aim for December approval to avoid delays into January.
- Read the Worthington Pulse article on these project here
COTA Updates: Councilmember Pete Bucher, who serves as Worthington's trustee on the COTA board, reported that the transit authority is implementing tap-to-pay contactless payment on all buses by December, initiating construction on the first bus rapid transit line, and will present its 2026–2030 strategic plan in December.
Budget Ordinances Introduced: Council introduced ordinances for public hearing on December 1st covering the 2026 budget, community group funding, unclassified position compensation, health services contracts, plumbing inspection services, Riverlea police services, mayor/vice mayor compensation, and the outdoor pool project.
Key Upcoming Dates
- December 1, 2025: City Council meeting – Vote on 2026 budget and CIP; Introduction of City Council compensation ordinance
- December 8, 2025: City Council meeting – Vote on City Council compensation ordinance
- December 19, 2025: Deadline for Worthington Together online survey
- January 14, 2026: Worthington Together Community Committee meeting
Thanks for reading this summary of the City Council meeting. You can watch the original full video on the city's website.