JEFFERSON — Jefferson City Council members swore in one new council member during their Monday council work session, along with a returning council member and mayor.

Councilwoman Kathy DuBose, the first woman to serve on the council in a number of years, replaces David S. Varnedoe Jr., who did not seek re-election during November’s election. Jim Joiner was sworn in again as Jefferson’s mayor and Bosie Griffith as a council member, following their successful fall campaigns for re-election.

The council also discussed a rezoning and variance request for a 17-acre property near the intersection of Washington Street and Story Lane.

The property is owned by Jackson Land Properties, LLC. The company is seeking to have the property rezoned from highway commercial to multifamily residential in order to create a residential, mixed-use development.

“This property is bordered by commercial properties and has a commercial zoning. We are seeking a (down-graded) zoning,” said Thomas Ward, a representative for the company.

“The first phase would be on the west side of the property and would be restricted by age. It would be 56 units for elderly residents over 55 years old and the second phase would be traditional townhouses for families.”

The age restricted units would be rentals only, while the company has not decided if the townhouses would be for purchase or rental, Ward said.

The council is expected to take action on all agenda items during its voting session on Jan. 25.