City Council Recap: Celebrating Community and Investing in Harrison's Future

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Tuesday's City Council meeting began with a heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped make Harrison's Fourth of July celebration another successful community event.

Mayor Ryan Grubbs thanked the Recreation Commission, Police Department, Fire Department, Street Department, city staff and volunteers for the many hours they dedicated before, during and after the celebration. Several council members echoed those comments, recognizing the teamwork that made the parade, concerts, food vendors and fireworks possible.

Councilwoman Jean Wilson also reflected on how nice it was to see families enjoy the new splash pad throughout the celebration. She said it was wonderful to see children laughing and playing together and noted what a tremendous addition the splash pad has become for community events like the Fourth of July.

Council members also recognized the rainy cleanup effort that had the park ready for visitors again the very next day.

Investing in Harrison's infrastructure

Council approved funding for several projects already underway or scheduled to begin throughout the city.

The appropriations include improvements to the Street Department facility, including insulation and heating upgrades, new winter maintenance equipment, salt brine equipment funded through a grant, engineering and design work for the future Fire Station 58, engineering related to the Dry Fork Road overpass project, wastewater repairs on North Hill and State Street, and police training funded through Ohio's opioid settlement funds.

Council also approved Harrison's 2027 Tax Budget, which will be submitted to the Hamilton County Budget Commission as part of the City's annual financial planning process.

American Legion continues giving back

Tuesday's meeting also included another round of community giving from the American Legion.

The Harrison Band Boosters received $2,000. Harrison Youth Football received $20,000 toward the purchase of a new scoreboard, replacing one that has served the organization for approximately two decades. The Legion also presented its monthly contribution to the Harrison Mayor's Fund, continuing a commitment members said has existed for more than 20 years.

Development projects keep moving

The Economic Development Committee shared updates on several projects moving forward across Harrison.

At Harrison Commons, the redevelopment of the former Big Lots property continues. Mega Beauty is expected to become the first tenant to open, with additional tenants anticipated later this summer.

Council also shared that the long-vacant third floor of the Cincinnatus Building has been leased to a podiatrist, bringing another healthcare service to downtown Harrison.

Elsewhere in the city, JTM is constructing a new culinary center, and six downtown businesses are participating in façade improvements through the Hamilton County Economic Impact Grant program.

Council member Patty McLeod also noted that Marco's Pizza is currently for sale and said city leaders hope to see a new restaurant locate in the space.

Looking ahead

There are plenty of opportunities to get out and enjoy the community over the next several weeks, including Christmas in July in the Downtown District on July 25 and 26, the America 250 Car Show on Aug. 8, and Renaissance in the District on Aug. 22.

The Charter Review Committee is expected to present its recommendations during the next City Council meeting after its presentation was postponed from Tuesday's agenda.

A reminder that every voice matters

Before adjourning, Mayor Grubbs recognized a young Harrison resident who attended the meeting to share her thoughts on parks, green space, housing and the city's future.

He thanked her for taking the time to participate in the public comment portion of the meeting and encouraged more residents, especially young people, to get involved in local government.