A Welcome Note - Opening the Door to Collaboration
By Sean Suttle, President, Building Worthington’s Future
As a new year of civic leadership begins, I want to extend a sincere welcome to our newly seated members of Worthington City Council. Stepping into public service is no small commitment. It requires time, humility, and a genuine desire to listen, especially in a community as engaged and thoughtful as Worthington.
Strong local leadership matters. City council members are the stewards of decisions that shape the character of our city today and for years to come. From housing and infrastructure to sustainability and economic vitality, these choices influence how we live, connect, and thrive together. When leaders are willing to ask hard questions, consider long-term impacts, and collaborate across perspectives, communities like ours become stronger.
At Building Worthington’s Future (BWF), we are excited and eager for the opportunity to work alongside City Council in that spirit of collaboration. Our mission remains the same, to support smart, thoughtful development that honors Worthington’s history while preparing for its future. We believe growth, when done well, can strengthen neighborhoods, expand opportunity, and enhance quality of life, without losing the sense of place that makes Worthington special.
I joined BWF because I believe deeply in that balance. Like many residents, I care about preserving what we love about Worthington while also recognizing that standing still isn’t a viable plan. Innovative communities open to growth are willing to engage, learn, and adapt. BWF creates space for those conversations, bringing together residents, business leaders, planners, and public officials to better understand the challenges we face and the opportunities before us.
Our role is not to dictate outcomes, but to learn from each other and facilitate dialogue. We aim to be a resource by sharing data, encouraging civic participation, and helping our community navigate complex topics like housing, transportation, and land use with clarity and respect. When people feel informed and heard, better decisions follow.
To our new City Council members, we look forward to working with you. We appreciate your willingness to serve, and we’re committed to being a constructive partner as you guide Worthington forward. Together with open minds, mutual respect, and a focus on our future we can help ensure that Worthington remains a welcoming, resilient, innovative and vibrant community for generations to come.
A strong Worthington needs informed, engaged residents. I invite you to stay connected, attend a BWF event, follow our work, and be part of the conversations shaping our city’s future. Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to Worthington, your voice matters. Together, we can help ensure growth that reflects our shared values and strengthens our community for generations to come.
Here’s to thoughtful leadership, meaningful collaboration, and a strong future for Worthington
