The Worthington City Council hosted a special meeting Wednesday to give feedback on work done thus far on a new comprehensive plan for the community.
Director of Community Development Matt Selof presented multiple facets of a draft of the plan, which is being called Our Worthington 2045, to council members. He began sharing data from a community survey.
Among the data reported by Selof was that 72% of respondents identified as white, while just 12% identified as Hispanic or Latino. Among other data cited was that 63% of respondents look for housing near parks and spaces, and 57% say the city needs more parks, trails and recreation. Selof said that shouldn't necessarily be viewed as a condemnation of the city's current such amenities, and that it could be viewed as a hope to improve these attributes even further.
One key message that came across, Selof said, is that diversity and welcoming are favorite qualities about Worthington. It was also noted that 65% of respondents were dissatisfied or with very dissatisfied with available housing today, and that 65% identified housing as a top priority for the next 20 years. A total of 81% identified neighborhood character as a desired housing amenity.
Also shared was the draft of a new vision statement for Worthington, as well as vision statements for other communities. The overall feedback from council members was to make Worthington's new vision statement shorter and more concise.
Selof also reviewed multiple goals listed under headings as part of the comprehensive plans that included "Livable," "Connective," "Active," "Welcoming" and "Economically Vibrant." Small revisions under each goal were suggested by council members.
It's expected that a final version of a new comprehensive plan will be considered for approval next year.
