City Council Recap: Harrison Honors Service and Prepares for the Holidays
The Oct. 6 City Council meeting was full of hometown pride as the City of Harrison celebrated the people who serve our community. A father pinned on his son’s firefighter badge during the opening ceremonies. Alex Inderhees, a 2022 graduate of William Henry Harrison High School, was sworn in as a full-time firefighter/paramedic serving right here in his hometown.
The evening also recognized Lt. Shaun Miller and Sgt. Mark Wise in their new ranks and welcomed Officer Joe Johnson from the Hamilton Police Department. Lt. Miller joined Harrison in 2018; Sgt. Wise, another Harrison High School graduate, joined in 2022.
Students Plan a Wall of Honor
Harrison High School's Interact Club presented plans for a permanent Wall of Honor recognizing graduates who have served in the military. The display will identify alumni by branch of service and graduation year.
The club's fundraising goal covers installation and future upkeep. Councilwoman Jean Wilson presented a $2,500 American Legion donation toward the project, with another installation planned for the week of Oct. 19. The students are still collecting alumni names and seeking sponsors. To contribute a name or ask about supporting the project, email harrisoninteractclub@gmail.com.
The Legion also donated $3,500 to restart Shop with a Cop and $500 to Scout Troop 408. Additional checks supported Harrison Senior Center programming and continued the Legion's monthly $2,500 contribution to the Harrison Mayor's Community Fund.
Preparing for Winter and Future Needs
Council approved budget adjustments that include $100,000 for road salt and $55,000 in combined fuel expenses for the police and fire departments. It also authorized an application for Ohio Public Works Commission funding.
City officials are studying a proposal to make Harrison Avenue one-way westbound between Broadway and State Street. The City will review traffic controls and parking along with costs, and seek input from businesses along that stretch. No change has been approved.
The Utilities Department is developing a 10-year water master plan to assess future needs. Early concepts for additional recreation improvements at the Community Center remain under review.
Council also discussed the ongoing criminal case involving approximately $50,000 lost in an external cyberattack. Officials said City employees were not involved and reported additional cybersecurity safeguards. The City of Harrison is considering an insurance claim to recover the money.
Around Harrison
T.J. Maxx and Chase Bank will join the Target development, according to the economic development report. Harrison Marketplace, next to Kroger, is expected to break ground within 30 days of the meeting, weather permitting.
Movie filming in the downtown district is scheduled to continue through Oct. 9, with temporary street closures and parking restrictions on Harrison Avenue.
Before voting on proposed City Charter changes in November, take a look at the marked-up version on the City's website. It shows the proposed changes in context. Printed copies are also available at the Harrison Community Center.
Holiday Assistance and an Invitation
Mayor Ryan Grubbs announced November registration dates for families seeking holiday assistance through the Harrison Mayor's Community Fund. Sign-ups will take place at the Harrison Community Center, 300 George St., on Nov. 4, 11 and 18, from 9 a.m. to noon and 5 to 7 p.m., and Nov. 21, from 9 a.m. to noon. Toy collection boxes will also be distributed throughout the community.
Before then, bring the family to Spooktacular at the Community Center on Oct. 25, from 5 to 7 p.m. The free event includes games and candy, with the American Legion donating 1,000 hot dogs.
Councilwoman Wilson praised the Senior Center’s full calendar of activities and encouraged older adults to stop in and see what Becky Nagel has planned. She closed the meeting with a reminder ahead of the holidays: If you have an empty seat at your table, consider inviting someone who may be spending the day alone.
To watch the full Oct. 6 City Council meeting, visit ICRC-TV below for the complete recording.
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