WADSWORTH, Ohio — On Monday evening, former Republican Congressman Jim Renacci was officially sworn in as the newest member of the Wadsworth City Council.
Council President David Williams said Renacci will complete the remainder of the term previously held by At-Large Councilmember Susan Hanlon, whose resignation created the vacancy. The term runs through Dec. 31.
Williams said Hanlon, who stepped down on June 19, relocated out of state to be closer to her family.
Renacci, who previously served as both Wadsworth City Council president and mayor, represented Ohio in the U.S. Congress from 2011 to 2019.
Tuesday afternoon Renacci said Wadsworth is facing some unique challenges, and he’s happy to serve once again.
“Surprisingly, after serving in Congress, when the opportunity came up, I was asked if I’d serve for six months—and I agreed. I believe in public service and giving back to the community.”
Renacci noted that he moved to Wadsworth 42 years ago and has served in various roles, including as a firefighter and as a member of the city’s Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals. Returning to the council chambers, he said, feels like a full-circle moment.
In 2018, Renacci unsuccessfully ran for Ohio's U.S. Senate seat, losing to Democrat Sherrod Brown.
Then, in 2022, Renacci lost the Republican nomination for Ohio Governor to the incumbent, Mike DeWine.
