Youngstown City Council chooses member to fill sixth ward seat
Youngstown City Council members have appointed Cynthia McWilson as the new 6th Ward councilwoman in a 4-2 vote.
McWilson defeats fellow 6th ward residents Catrina Donald, Ryan Gilchrist, and Janet Tarpley.
Previously, the sixth ward council seat was held by Councilwoman Anita Davis before she became council president on January 1, 2026.
McWilson is a registered nurse with over 35 years of experience, according to her resume.
"Because I'm compassionate, and listening to my patients, I would use that same compassion with listening to constituents in the 6th ward," she said.
She adds that she hopes to revitalize the 6th ward.
"We can start stabilizing these neighborhoods, building some houses, safer neighborhoods, safer streets," she said.
McWilson says she is ready to hear from her new constituents.
"I'm not gonna shy away from anybody, if I don't know the answer, I'm say 'I don't know the answer, here, let me look and see if I can find the answer for you,'" she said.
McWilson has previously run for city council, but was unsuccessful.
Janet Tarpley was the only other candidate who was nominated, but did not receive the four votes required.
1st Ward Councilman Julius Oliver says he voted for McWilson because he felt she would work well with the rest of the council.
"Who was gonna be the most likely candidate who was gonna navigate those personalities, and those different things, and be able to come to an agreement that's best for the citizens," he said.
4th Ward councilman and vice chair Mike Ray, who also voted for McWilson, says he believes her experience in the medical field will be valuable to the council.
"Someone from a healthcare background with compassion and nursing, that's a perspective that would be new at the table," he said.
To be present at a council meeting, McWilson must schedule a time to be sworn in.
She could take her oath in front of a judge or Mayor Derrick McDowell.
The next Youngstown City Council meeting is on Wednesday, March. 18.
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