New Councilman Named In Yardley Borough

YARDLEY BOROUGH, PA — The Yardley Borough Council has another new face on its seven-member board.

The all-Democrat council approved On Tuesday night in a 4-2 vote, adding Jonathan Woodring to replace former Council President Uri Feiner, whose recent tenure wrapped up last week.

Councilwomen Michelle Sharer and Kim-Segal Morris voted against Woodring after their candidate Daniel Mohn (a registered Independent) was not chosen.

Woodring was then sworn in by Mayor Caroline Thompson.

Woodring is a graduate of Skidmore College, where he studied Political Science and Sociology. His professional career spans more than 25 years in the health technology sector, including work with both early-stage startups and large companies with over 500 employees.

Woodring expressed a strong interest in public service and civic engagement. He also noted that recent personal experiences navigating borough matters, specifically stormwater management and environmental impact to his property, and participating in council meetings have given him a closer understanding of local government operations and community needs.

“As the larger geo-political landscape shifts in ways once thought impossible, and as people continue to retreat into their digital comfort zones and echo-chambers, it is imperative that we as citizens get involved and act locally to embody the types of democratic institutions on which our nation was founded," Woodring said.

His work has focused on integrating technology into healthcare delivery, driving operational improvements, and navigating organizational change.

Council President David Appelbaum and Thompson praised the addition of Woodring.

"I’m a big fan of Jonathan Woodring and believe he will be an excellent addition to Borough Council," Thompson said.

Thompson noted three things that stood out about Woodring:

"First, I’ve heard Jonathan say ‘this doesn’t make sense’ more than a dozen times when discussing borough processes and ordinances and that mindset matters. We should want leaders who are committed to making local government more understandable and effective."

"Second, he’s an established member of this community. He’s lived here for over 15 years, raised his family here, and has been actively engaged in council meetings and borough issues for a long time.

"And third, he brings a sense of humor, which (especially in local government) goes a long way."

She and Appelbaum said they were "blown away" by the candidate pool.

"It amazes me that in a town as small as Yardley, we have so many talented, committed people who show up for their community," Appelbaum told Patch. "Many work long hours at their day jobs, yet they still sacrifice family and personal time to help out. That kind of volunteer spirit is no small thing."

Appelbaum thanked everyone "who put their hand up to be considered for Council.

"We really did have strong choices, even though we could only pick one," Appelbaum said. "In the end, Jonathan Woodring rose to the top. I’m excited for what he’ll bring to the Council."

(Jared Stump)