Katherine Brewer believes in bringing women to the forefront and asserting independence as women to enhance the lives of all women. Katherine wants to bring a better line of communication between elected officials and the residents of Worthington. Worthington residents want their voices to be heard by elected officials.  When elected Katherine will strive to be a constant conduit between the residents and Council and will work to ensure the City of Worthington is collaborating for the good of the residents. As a small business owner, Katherine has the necessary skills to serve and represent the people of Worthington.

Katherine for Worthington

Meet the Candidate

Can you tell our members a little bit about your journey to filing as a candidate?

My journey started differently than just running for City Council: A friend and I were working on a term limits initiative in our city for our council members. We were lucky enough to meet with several members with whom I shared similar views. After much deliberation, I decided I wanted to jump into local politics to be a voice for my fellow residents (many of whom felt like they weren’t being heard/listened to by the city). I want to be a true conduit between my fellow neighbors and the city.

Tip O’Neill famously said that “all politics is local.” What are the top two issues your community faces today and how do you plan to address them?

Our two biggest issues in Worthington are: 1) United Methodist Children’s Home (“UMCH”), is a plot of land (approximately 37 acres) that is currently the subject of much discussion within the city. The decision on what to do with the land is somewhat split between higher density housing or a mixed used development with a focus on park/green space. I have been canvassing the city and emailing residents every week that have voiced concern about this issue and I will address the issue by continuing that important conversation with my fellow residents until the decision is made as to what will happen with the property; and 2) Senior/affordable housing is, in my mind, the next greatest issue we’re facing as a city. With a city that has a strong portion of senior residents, many worry about/are considering downsizing going into retirement. The fact of the matter is that there isn’t a great deal of this type of housing available within the city. I will address this issue by proposing/supporting the addition of senior/affordable housing within 10-12 pockets of land that already exists within the city. Approximately 20 acres exist like this within the city and I plan to support integrating enclaves like this into our existing neighborhoods.

What stands out in our values as most important to you and your experience (or expected experience) in public office? Our values are:

∙      Economic empowerment

∙      Equity and independence

∙      Dominion over our bodies

∙      Access to education

∙      Safe communities in which to live and raise our families

I am hopeful that with a new council (that stands to have a make up of more women) will place a heightened importance on empowering women and ensuring that women are afforded the same opportunities within the community as men. When delving into proposed economic opportunities, my hope is that my fellow council members will place the proper value on women-owned companies. Although unlikely to arise within the local level, I would never support a policy or legislation that places restraints on women when it comes to what we can/can’t do with our own bodies. I believe the safe community aspect is the most important value to me – I have two young children and I want nothing more for them to feel safe at any time in our community and if I can, through a seat on council, ensure that value, I will do everything in my power as an elected official to make that happen.

What does a Matriots PAC endorsement mean to you and your campaign?

This endorsement holds special meaning to me. I am a female attorney (and business owner) in a male-dominated career. To receive this endorsement is evidence that women supporting other women can make a massive difference in our local political realm. I am hopeful that this endorsement not only evidences that I believe in the special power that we women hold, but that men also see that we are just as deserving of a “spot at the table”.